Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas

Last May, participants of the 64th Annual Washington Fly-In had the opportunity to attend the unveiling of Daisy Gatson Bates’ statue in Statuary Hall, where she now stands as one of Arkansas’ representatives in the U.S. Capitol. Today, on Daisy Bates Day, we celebrate her contributions to our state and nation. If you join us for the 65th Annual Washington Fly-In and Congressional Reception from April 29-May 1, you’ll have the chance to see this statue in person! Don’t miss the opportunity! Register for our 65th Annual Washington Fly In and Congressional Reception here: https://lnkd.in/gT-vKPZH

Join us for our 65th Annual Washington Fly-In and Congressional Reception from April 29 – May 1, 2025, in Washington, D.C.! Each year, this event offers Arkansas business leaders the chance to engage with our federal delegation, participate in high-level policy discussions, and network with industry peers. Registration is now OPEN! This event usually fills up fast, so don't wait!

Be Pro Be Proud is hiring a bookkeeper! If you or someone you know is interested, this is a great opportunity to be part of an organization driving the future of our state's skilled workforce.

We had a fantastic turnout at last night’s State Chamber/AIA Legislative Reception, presented by AGC Arkansas! It was great to connect with members of the 95th General Assembly, business leaders, and public officials from across the state. A big thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening a success. We appreciate your commitment to strengthening Arkansas’ business community!

Leadership Arkansas Class XIX kicked off 2025 by exploring South Arkansas’ rich contributions to natural resources, defense, and industrial development. Over two days in Magnolia and Camden, class members gained behind-the-scenes insights to globally recognized defense, timber, and advanced manufacturing companies like PotlatchDeltic Corporation, Amfuel, Lockheed Martin, Southern Aluminum, and Albemarle Corporation. They also explored South Arkansas’ thriving natural resource production and learned about the region’s rapid industrial growth. A big thank you to our session sponsors: Farmers Bank and Trust, LANXESS, PotlatchDeltic Corporation, Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia Economic Development, Steve & Laura Crowell, and W&W|AFCO Steel. This experience would not have been possible without you!

You're invited to the State Chamber/AIA Legislative Reception, presented by AGC Arkansas, honoring the members of the 95th General Assembly! Date: January 21, 2025 Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Location: State Chamber/AIA parking lot, under the big tent Enjoy food, beverages, and great company, and don’t miss the chance to tour Be Pro Be Proud’s mobile workshop onsite during the event! Worried about the cold? No need—our event will be fully heated to keep you warm throughout the evening. We look forward to seeing you there!

The Arkansas State Chamber/AIA is proud to launch the inaugural Frontline Leader Development Series! This is a new State Chamber/AIA program specifically designed to address the need for leadership training and development for recently promoted leaders or those looking to build essential leadership skills. The first cohort of the 2025 series is limited to just 25 spots, so register now to secure your seat! Learn more HERE: https://lnkd.in/gxGQ857W

Our President and CEO, Randy Zook, attended the 2025 Catalyst: NEA Economic Development and Leadership Forum in Jonesboro today. The event highlighted the role Northeast Arkansas plays in driving economic success across the state, with discussions on key sectors like health care, steel, agriculture, and leadership development. Plus our team had the opportunity to connect with leaders from across the region, including several Leadership Arkansas alumni!

The members of Leadership Arkansas Class XIX learned about governance and healthcare during their session in Little Rock this week! On day one, class members learned about Arkansas’ legislative process by stepping into the roles of lawmakers. They worked with elected leaders and Leadership Arkansas alumni to navigate the complexities of moving bills from committee to the floor, gaining firsthand insights into how decisions are made at the Capitol. Day two made history with the program’s first-ever Healthcare Session! The class explored challenges and opportunities in Arkansas’ healthcare system, including rural access, policy impacts, and innovative solutions. A highlight of the day was observing an operation conducted by Dr. Mohammed Moursi, Professor and Chief of UAMS Vascular and Endovascular Surgery. Participants also experienced hands-on learning at UAMS and engaged with healthcare leaders, including: Dr. Joe Thompson (ACHI), Troy Wells (Baptist Health), Dr. Stephanie Gardner (UAMS), Marcy Doderer (Arkansas Children’s), Jodiane Tritt (Arkansas Hospital Association), Kristin N. Merlo (Delta Dental), and Andy Davis (UAMS). A special thank you to everyone who made this session such a success!

Check out the newly published Arkansas Economic Development Guide, which highlights key industries, investment opportunities, and the incredible momentum driving growth across our state!