The Professions · Be Pro Be Proud

The Path Filled With Promise Begins Here.

If you think you’re ready to use your passion and talent to start shaping our state’s future, then it’s time to take a look at a skilled profession. It’s more than just finding a high-wage, stable career – it’s finding the sense of pride that comes from building something bigger than yourself. Explore some of Arkansas’s innovative, in-demand professions below.

Computer Programmer

Top 10%: $102,040
Average: $69,540

Without the code written by computer programmers, even the most impressive software cannot be read by computers. Computer programmers are responsible for developing and writing programs to store, locate and retrieve data and information. The possibilities for specialization are virtually endless.

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Automation & Robotics

Top 10%: $87,970
Average: $56,740

Electro-mechanical technicians operate automated and robotic equipment. They use both electrical and mechanical expertise to maintain and repair the manufacturing equipment typically found in a factory setting.

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Tool & Die Maker

Top 10%: $95,500

Tool and die makers are a class of machinists who use computer-aided design and computer-controlled machinery to make and repair specialized parts such as dies, cutting tools, and gauges.

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Electrician

Top 10%: $62,800
Average: $43,530

Electricians install and maintain electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and factories.

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CNC Operator

Top 10%: $48,810
Average: $35,980

CNC (computer numerically controlled) machines make precision parts found in items we use every day. CNC operators enable the machine's success by programming precision cutting and using skillfully-trained ears to avoid issues like excessive vibrations that can affect quality.

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Fiber Optics Technician

Top 10%: $79,220
Average: $62,020

Fiber Optics Technician

Fiber Optics Technician(s) install and repair hybrid coax, copper and fiber optic cables that deliver communications services such as internet, phone and TV to residential and business customers.

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CAD/CAM Drafter

Top 10%: $78,540
Average: $59,080

Computer-Aided Design (CAD/CAM) drafters take the reins as creators of 2-D and 3-D simulations for the manufacture of products such as consumer electronics, molded plastics, and more.

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Top 10%: $49,420
Average: $35,430

Heavy equipment operators utilize heavy machinery often used in construction. They also clean, control maintain, inspect and repair the machines.

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Machinist

Top 10%: $60,390
Average: $38,350

When the success of a manufacturing operation requires a part that doesn't exist, machinists create the solution. Working with raw materials like metal and plastic, they operate a variety of machines to produce precision parts and instruments.

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HVACR Technician

Top 10%: $58,350
Average: $36,850

HVACR technicians ensure people's comfort, by installing and maintaining heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for homes and businesses.

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Construction

Top 10%: $90,750
Average: $56,250

Carpenters are involved in many types of construction and repairs. From residential and commercial framing, drywall and cabinetry to industrial scaffolding and concrete forms, carpentry offers a versatile career path.

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Commercial Truck Driver

Top 10%: $60,710
Average: $37,930

Commercial truck drivers keep commerce in motion across the country and around the world. Whether delivering essential, life-saving goods like medical equipment or non-essential goods like candy, truck drivers meet the needs of both suppliers and consumers.

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Lineman

Top 10%: $95,780
Average: $69,960

Lineman

Lineman deal with electrical lines, whether in utility poles or underground systems. Electrical lineman often work with high-voltage electrical lines, so they need to understand how to safely fix problems in electrical systems.

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Plumber

Top 10%: $61,120
Average: $39,940

Plumbers keep water and wastewater flowing, by installing and maintaining the pipes, fixtures, plumbing and appliances used in homes and businesses.

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Diesel Technician

Top 10%: $58,360
Average: $38,250

Responsible for keeping the commercial transportation infrastructure moving, diesel technicians inspect, diagnose and perform routine maintenance and repair of any machine with a diesel engine such as trucks, buses, bulldozers and cranes.

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Welder

Top 10%: $60,460
Average: $36,620

Welders are detail-oriented masters of cutting and joining metal using high heat. With more than 80 welding specialties, welders have the flexibility to work just about anywhere.

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