LiTHIUMLEARN Secures Donations from Grant and Albemarle: Launching New Career and Technical Education Programs for High School Students

Albemarle Investment Fuels New Workforce Development Program at Southern Arkansas University

Magnolia, Arkansas – A groundbreaking partnership between Southern Arkansas University (SAU) and industry leader Albemarle is bringing expanded workforce development opportunities to high school students in Southwest Arkansas. The initiative,bolstered by a $2.75 million HIRED Grant, aims to provide hands-on training and college credit, preparing students for careers in the rapidly growing critical minerals industry.

LiTHIUMLEARNS: Bridging the Skills Gap

The program, known as LiTHIUMLEARNS – short for Higher Industry Readiness through Educational Development – is designed to address a critical need for skilled workers in the region. It delivers concurrent Career and Technical Education (CTE) to high school juniors and seniors who may not otherwise have access to such programs. A pilot program launched this fall at Magnolia High School, focusing on industrial Engineering Technology with an emphasis on chemical process technology offered through South Arkansas College.

Albemarle’s Critical Support

Albemarle has considerably contributed to the program’s launch by donating essential lab supplies, including personal protection equipment and a training mannequin for simulating workplace scenarios. Crucially, Albemarle team members are actively participating as guest instructors in lab sessions, providing students with direct insights from industry professionals. This direct engagement connects classroom learning with real-world applications.

“Current high school students will earn credentials that will make them attractive to employers to promptly go into the workforce or accelerate their time to obtain a degree in related fields,” stated Sheryl Edwards, associate vice president for strategic initiatives and director of LiTHIUMLEARNS. “Our collaborative approach to workforce readiness is creating job awareness and removing the barriers to skill development.”

Program Structure and Benefits

The concurrent CTE model combines online academic instruction from South Arkansas College with hands-on lab work at SAU, facilitated by Magnolia High School chemistry teachers. Students participating in the program can earn a Certificate of Proficiency after completing the first two semesters, graduating with a diploma of merit.Completing the full two-year program yields a Technical certificate and a diploma of distinction.

Program Level	Completion requirements	Credential Earned	High School Recognition
First Two Semesters	Completion of coursework	Certificate of Proficiency	Diploma of Merit
Full Two-year Program	Completion of all courses	Technical Certificate	Diploma of Distinction

Dr. Robin Sronce, provost and vice president for academic affairs at SAU, emphasized the collaborative nature of the program. “We are excited to have such a strong group of partners – including employers, K-12, community colleges, and community organizations – working together to prepare our workforce for the future,” she said.

Expansion Plans and Regional Impact

LiTHIUMLEARNS aims to expand the program to all high schools in Columbia County and neighboring counties by Fall 2026. SAU is also collaborating with the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana to replicate the model with a construction technology program. This enterprising expansion reflects a commitment to building a robust, homegrown talent pipeline for the critical minerals industry.

“Our vision is to expand CTE programs to all high schools in Columbia County as well as collaborate with our two-year partners and southwest Arkansas high schools to replicate programs across our region and build a homegrown talent pipeline for the critical mineral industry,” Edwards added.

The Growing Demand for Skilled Workers in Critical Minerals

The demand for skilled professionals in the critical minerals industry is rapidly increasing,driven by the global transition to clean energy technologies. The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights the crucial role of thes minerals in powering electric vehicles, wind turbines, and other enduring technologies. This growth necessitates a proactive approach to workforce development, ensuring a steady supply of qualified individuals to meet industry needs.

did You Know? The Smackover Formation in arkansas is a significant source of bromine and lithium, key components in batteries and other critical applications.

Pro tip: Explore career pathways in Industrial Engineering Technology and Chemical Process Technology to discover opportunities in the expanding critical minerals sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is concurrent CTE? Concurrent CTE allows high school students to earn both college credit and workforce development skills simultaneously.
• What is the LiTHIUMLEARNS program? LiTHIUMLEARNS is a grant-funded initiative focused on expanding CTE programs in Southwest Arkansas, particularly those related to the critical minerals industry.
• How does Albemarle contribute to this program? Albemarle provides essential lab supplies, equipment, and expertise through guest instructors.
• What credentials can students earn through this program? Students can earn a certificate of Proficiency and a Technical Certificate, along with corresponding high school diplomas of merit or distinction.
• Where is this program currently offered? The pilot program is currently running at Magnolia High School, with plans for expansion across Columbia County and neighboring areas.

What other industries should prioritize similar workforce development partnerships? Share yoru thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your network!

## Summary of LiTHIUMLEARN Program & Industry Need

LiTHIUMLEARN Secures Donations from Grant adn Albemarle: Launching New career and Technical Education Programs for High School Students

Expanding Access to Skilled Trades: A New Era for Lithium-Ion Battery Workforce Progress

LiTHIUMLEARN, a pioneering initiative focused on bridging the skills gap in the burgeoning lithium-ion battery industry, has announced significant donations from Grant Johnson, a prominent philanthropist in STEM education, and Albemarle Corporation, a leading global specialty chemicals company. These contributions will fuel the launch of new Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs specifically designed for high school students, addressing the critical need for a qualified battery technician workforce. The programs will initially roll out in select schools across Nevada, North Carolina, and Ohio – states experiencing considerable growth in electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage manufacturing.

The Growing Demand for Battery Technicians & Skilled Trades

The rapid expansion of the EV market and the increasing demand for renewable energy storage solutions are driving unprecedented demand for skilled professionals capable of manufacturing, installing, maintaining, and recycling lithium batteries. This isn’t just about engineers; a substantial portion of the workforce requires specialized training in areas like:

* Battery Assembly: Precision work requiring dexterity and adherence to strict quality control standards.

* Battery Diagnostics & Repair: Identifying and resolving issues in battery packs, utilizing specialized testing equipment.

* Battery Management Systems (BMS) Troubleshooting: Understanding and repairing the electronic control systems vital for battery performance and safety.

* Electrochemical Technician Roles: Focusing on the chemical processes within batteries and quality assurance.

* Battery Recycling & Materials Recovery: A crucial component of a lasting circular economy for batteries.

Currently, the supply of qualified battery technicians is substantially lagging behind demand, creating a bottleneck for industry growth. LiTHIUMLEARN’s programs aim to directly address this challenge by providing students with hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications. This focus on workforce development is vital for maintaining US competitiveness in the global clean energy landscape.

Program Details: Curriculum & Certification

The LiTHIUMLEARN CTE programs will be a blend of classroom instruction and practical, hands-on experience. Key features include:

1. Industry-Aligned Curriculum: Developed in collaboration with Albemarle and other leading battery manufacturers, ensuring relevance to current industry practices. The curriculum will cover battery technology,electrical safety,chemical handling,and manufacturing processes.
2. Hands-on training Labs: Schools will be equipped with state-of-the-art labs featuring actual battery manufacturing equipment and diagnostic tools.
3. Industry Certifications: Students will have the opportunity to earn nationally recognized certifications, such as those offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and perhaps customized certifications developed in partnership with albemarle.
4. Internship Opportunities: LiTHIUMLEARN will facilitate internship placements with partner companies, providing students with real-world work experience.
5. Emphasis on Safety: Thorough training in battery safety protocols, including handling hazardous materials and preventing thermal runaway.

The Impact of Grant Johnson & Albemarle’s Investment

Grant Johnson’s donation will be instrumental in establishing the initial program infrastructure, including lab equipment and curriculum development. Albemarle’s contribution will focus on providing ongoing technical expertise, mentorship opportunities, and potential employment pathways for graduates.

“Albemarle is committed to fostering the next generation of skilled workers in the lithium battery space,” stated John Mitchell,Albemarle’s SVP of Operations,in a press release. “Partnering with LiTHIUMLEARN allows us to directly invest in the communities where we operate and ensure a sustainable pipeline of talent for our industry.”

This investment isn’t just about filling jobs; it’s about creating economic opportunity for students and strengthening the US manufacturing base. The programs are designed to be accessible to students from diverse backgrounds, with a particular focus on underrepresented communities.

Benefits of a Career in the Lithium-Ion Battery Industry

Choosing a career path in the lithium battery sector offers numerous advantages:

* High Demand & Job Security: The industry is experiencing rapid growth, ensuring strong job prospects for qualified professionals.

* Competitive Salaries: Battery technician roles typically offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.

* Technological Advancement: The field is constantly evolving, providing opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

* Contribution to Sustainability: Working in the clean energy sector allows individuals to contribute to a more sustainable future.

* Diverse Career Paths: Opportunities exist in manufacturing, research and development, quality control, and recycling.

Real-World Example: The Nevada Pilot Program

The frist LiTHIUMLEARN pilot program launched in January 2024 at Carson High School in Carson City, Nevada. the program,focused on battery assembly and testing,quickly reached capacity with a waiting list of students. Initial feedback from students and instructors has been overwhelmingly positive.

“The hands-on training is amazing,” said Sarah Chen, a Carson High School student participating in the program. “I’ve always been interested in technology, and this program has given me a clear path to a rewarding career.”

Practical Tips for Students Considering a Career in Battery Technology

* Focus on STEM Courses: Strong foundations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are essential.

* Seek Out CTE Programs: Look for opportunities to participate in Career and Technical Education programs focused on electrical technology, manufacturing, or renewable energy.

* Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Battery diagnostics and repair require strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

* Prioritize Safety Training: Understanding and adhering to battery safety protocols is paramount.

* Network with Industry Professionals: Attend industry events and connect with professionals working in the lithium-ion battery industry.

Resources for Further Exploration

* National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER): https://www.nccer.org/

* U.S. Department of Energy – BatteryTech Center: https://www.energy.gov/eere/batterytech-center

* Albemarle Corporation: https://www.albemarle.com/

* LiTHIUMLEARN: (Website currently under development – check for updates)