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Southern Arkansas University Tech has secured $20 million in federal funding to create a Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence, announced on February 6. The investment consists of $15 million for a new facility and $5 million for advanced training equipment, aimed at expanding workforce training in aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing.

The center will feature 50,000 square feet of instructional space, advanced laboratories, and flexible classrooms. It is expected to train hundreds of skilled workers annually, supporting job creation across South Arkansas.

The project is backed by U.S. Sen. John Boozman and aligns with regional industry partners like Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics.