Workforce and manufacturing expansion with Brian Day

In this week's episode, Rex welcomes Bryan Day, executive director of the Little Rock Port Authority, back to the show to catch up on new developments in Central Arkansas' economic sector. The two begin their chat by focusing on two related announcements made in October: Faymonville Group, a European-based transportation manufacturing company, recently selected Little Rock as the location for its first U.S. production facility, bringing hundreds of jobs to the area, while line pipe solutions manufacturer Welspun Tubular LLC said it will invest $100 million in its Little Rock facility, adding an addition 175 jobs.  

From here, the conversation expands to the rapid growth at the Port of Little Rock and how the state is becoming a manufacturing and distribution powerhouse. Bryan explains the Port's role in these developments, and notes the importance of the presence and growth of companies such as Faymonville and Welspun in Central Arkansas. He also highlights the significance of infrastructure, workforce development, and quality of life in attracting businesses to the region, with a focus on upcoming projects, including the proposed 1,000-acre "supersite" for major manufacturers.

Throughout this week's discussion, both Rex and Bryan underscore the state’s potential for continued economic growth as well as how various sectors of manufacturing and distribution can play a major role in the future of The Natural State.