This resolution celebrates and commends NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) for its innovative and nationally recognized programs in Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician and Trail Technician training. The Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician program is one of only two accredited programs in the nation, developed in collaboration with the Bicycle Industry Employers Association, providing students with extensive hands-on experience equivalent to seven years in the field. Supported by a grant from the Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation, NWACC's state-of-the-art lab enhances the quality of training, thereby elevating the professionalism and skill level of bicycle mechanics and shaping the future of the bicycle industry.
Additionally, the Trail Technician program, unique in the world, sets a new standard for workforce training in trail planning, construction, and maintenance. It offers both semester-long and year-long certifications, preparing students for careers in community development and sustainability. The program has gained national recognition, training participants from various organizations, including the United States Forest Service, and establishing industry standards through partnerships with notable associations. The resolution acknowledges NWACC's leadership and commitment to hands-on training, which is defining the future of bicycle technology and trail development on both national and global scales.