Connect 4 makes significant impact on local economy

In the six years since inception, the economic impact of 167 seniors who have graduated from the Connect 4 training program has been significant.

Connect 4 maintains a placement rate of 86 percent through job placement and matriculation to institutions of higher learning and technical centers. Of these graduates, 82 percent directly entered the workforce, contributing to the local economy by earning an average salary of $52,000. These individuals are spending their earnings on goods, services and housing within the community, which stimulates demand in various sectors, including retail, healthcare and real estate. The infusion of more than $8 million per year (82 percent of 167 seniors at $52,000) into the local economy bolsters businesses and helps sustain local jobs.

Of the 18 percent of graduates who opted to pursue higher education, they spent an average of $17,000 each on tuition. During the 2023-2024 school year, more than $300,000 was spent on tuition at institutions outside of Carroll County (and frequently outside of Arkansas). It’s important to highlight that keeping and reducing tuition spending within the county would significantly enhance the program’s economic impact.

n Economic Impact: Short-Term Industry Classes n Summer 2022 (short term industry training for Tyson and Wabash): 33 students n Summer 2023 (short term industry training for Tyson and Wabash): 22 students n Welding 1 in 20232024: Four students (two obtained jobs) n Welding 2 in 20232024: Two students from the welding 1 class (two obtained jobs) n Hass Operator Class 2023-2024: Three students (all obtained jobs) n Summer 2024: (short term industry training for Tyson and Wabash): 22 students n Introduction to GTAW: (short term industry training for Tyson): Nine students The economic impact of upskill training for incumbent workers has been substantial in enhancing both the workforce and local economies. These training programs have equipped workers with the skills needed to progress in their careers, leading to higher earnings and greater job opportunities. From the summers of 2022 through 2024, shortterm industry training programs were held for Berryville Tyson, Green Forest Tyson, and Wabash, with a total of 93 students participating.

The effectiveness of these programs is evident — 82 percent of participants received a pay raise, 10 percent became eligible for promotions and 8 percent of participants secured a job after completing training with Connect 4. Quantitatively, this translates to an average pay raise of $1.25 per hour, leading to a total income boost of $197,600 per year. This increase improves workers’ financial stability, boosts their quality of life and enhances local economic growth through increased purchasing power. Qualitatively, employees feel valued improving job satisfaction and retention. When workers see their employers committed to their development, it fosters motivation, engagement, and ultimately, greater productivity and longterm success.

Promotions played a key role, with 8 percent of participants becoming eligible for advancement. This reflects the company’s commitment to promoting from within, recognizing employees’ hard work and dedication. This strategy not only boosts morale but also fosters a positive workplace culture, strengthens loyalty, and helps retain top talent for sustained long-term success.

The remaining 10 percent of adult participants entered the workforce with newly acquired skills, transitioning from stagnant positions to promising careers. This shift saw their pay rise from an average of $13.00 per hour to an average of $20.00 per hour, increasing their earning potential from a cumulative average of $189,280 per year to a communitave average of $291,200 per year. By gaining qualifications and workforce certifications, these individuals have secured more fulfilling and stable positions, proving that upskill training is building brighter futures while contributing to the local economy.