“This $20 million investment is about more than bricks and mortar,” said, chancellor Dr. Jerry Thomas. “It’s about creating high-wage, high-demand careers right here in South Arkansas.”

The funding, secured through fiscal year 2026 federal appropriations, includes $15 million to build a new training facility and $5 million for advanced instructional and manufacturing equipment. The school said U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., helped lead the effort.

The planned Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence is expected to cover about 50,000 square feet and focus on education and training tied to aerospace, defense and advanced manufacturing.

SAU Tech said the facility will include simulation and manufacturing laboratories, high-bay industrial training areas, flexible classrooms designed for rapid workforce upskilling, and collaborative spaces intended to support partnerships with industry.

Boozman said the funding will help establish the program and purchase equipment to train workers for aerospace and defense manufacturing jobs.

“This funding is critical to help establish this innovative program and obtain the proper equipment to train tomorrow’s aerospace and defense manufacturing workforce,” Boozman said.

Thomas said the project builds on recent state investments, including the HIRED Grant, and will be supported by partnerships with defense and aerospace companies including Lockheed Martin, L3Harris, General Dynamics, Raytheon, Armtec Defense and R2S.

SAU Tech said the center is expected to train hundreds of workers each year once operational.