Just under a year ago, classes began at the University of Arkansas at Hope-Texarkana's new Professions Building on the Texarkana campus.
The three-story building contains more than 10,000 square feet and allows for continued growth and new programs at the campus.
The location along the Interstate 30 corridor is purposeful, Chancellor Chris Thomason said during a tour of the building held prior to completion.
"The I-30 economic corridor is extremely important to the growth of our region," he said. "It's got real maximum potential. We need a regional institution within the University of Arkansas system being an active partner with (Texarkana), the city board and others, to be sure we realize the maximum potential of the I-30 economic corridor and Southwest Arkansas growth."
Courses for several health professions are offered in the $1.5 million building, including Emergency Medical Technician and Licensed Practical Nursing/Licensed Vocational Nursing, Certified Nursing Assistant and Registered Nurse.
The Supply Chain Management program is also housed there, with a goal of increasing career technical programs to meet industry demands. Three degree levels are offered in the SCM program: an associate of applied science degree, a technical certificate or a certificate of proficiency.
UA Hope-Texarkana's Commercial and Residential Equipment Maintenance and Repair program, also known as Facilities Maintenance, began in the building last year. It gives students experience in carpentry, heating and air systems, plumbing, appliance repair and basic electricity. The program offers an associate of applied science degree in General Technology.
A portion of the building is also dedicated to simulators, including a welding simulator and a labor and delivery suite for use in allied health training.
"We were the first college in the area to have a welding simulator," Thomason said. "It gives real-life experience without the heat and use of expensive materials."
Offices for UA Little Rock are on the building's bottom floor, and the schools work together to offer bachelor's degrees in applied science, professional studies, business administration and construction management.