The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) and the Little Rock School District (LRSD) announced a new partnership in mid-December 2025, establishing the Hydroponic Plant Systems Career Pathway at Little Rock Southwest High School (LRSWHS). The initiative marks a significant step forward in expanding access to high-skill, high-demand career preparation in agriculture, STEM, and emerging agri-technology fields for Arkansas students.
The pathway was designed to merge advanced science and technology with hands-on learning, introducing students to technology-driven agriculture through immersive, real-world experiences. Students gain exposure to operating a fully functional hydroponic growing system while applying robotics and automation tools, using drones for plant monitoring, and leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze production data and optimize crop performance.
A central feature of the pathway is its student-run agribusiness model, which allows learners to produce, price, market, and distribute fresh foods grown on campus. This experiential approach strengthens workforce readiness while also building financial literacy, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial capacity.
The program includes a wide range of academic and industry-aligned experiences that support student growth and career exploration. These components include practicums at the UAPB Discovery Farm Educational Center, teacher externships, industry tours and guest speakers, student internships, leadership and data science instruction, agribusiness training, and community engagement activities.
© Joshua StrongCareer Pathway launch panelist pictured left to right: Elizabeth Hernandez, George Maxey, Dr. Jermall Wright, Dr. Anthony Graham, Jarmion Beasley, and Terence Bolden
The announcement brought together leaders from both institutions, including Dr. Anthony Graham, Chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff; Dr. Jermall Wright, Superintendent of the Little Rock School District; and George Maxey, Principal of Little Rock Southwest High School. They were joined by UAPB 1890 Scholar Jarmion Beasley, LRSWHS Student Elizabeth Hernandez, and partnership consultant Terence Bolden, who highlighted the pathway's impact on student success and workforce development.
Held in the Aviation Wing at Little Rock Southwest High School, the event featured remarks from UAPB and LRSD leadership; student and educator engagement with hydroponic and Agri-Technology demonstrations; displays of advanced equipment supporting plant systems and Agri-sciences; and UAPB alumni, advancement, and enrollment management support.
