ARKADELPHIA, AR, Sept. 4, 2025: – The Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of commerce is proud to announce the launch of FutureMakers, a new highlight series dedicated to celebrating the educators, mentors, and community partners who are preparing students for the careers of tomorrow. We aim to share their stories, highlight their impact, and inspire others to join in the work of preparing today’s learners for success in the years ahead. Because the future doesn’t just happen, it’s made.
The inaugural FutureMaker is Andrew Massing, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Alternative Learning Environment (ALE) Instructor at Gurdon High School, whose innovative teaching and mentorship are transforming the way students prepare for life beyond graduation.
On Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, Mr. Massing was awarded an official FutureMakers certificate in a ceremony attended by Mike Rogers, Arkansas Chief Workforce Officer, alongside school and community leaders at Gurdon High School. Posters celebrating his achievements will also be displayed across the community to inspire students, families, and industry partners.
“Andrew Massing exemplifies what it means to be a FutureMaker," said Donald Westerman, Director of Workforce Development at the Arkadelphia Alliance. "His commitment to hands-on education, workforce readiness, and student mentorship ensures our young people graduate not only skilled but ready to lead."
Massing brings an impressive depth of experience to his classroom. A graduate of Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, he combines his background in agricultural education with technical expertise in welding and industrial arts. His professional journey includes service as a United States Marine Corps Sergeant, where he developed leadership and technical management skills that now shape his approach to instruction. In addition to teaching, Massing holds multiple industry-recognized certifications, including AWS D1.1 Structural Welding, AWS D1.2 Aluminum Welding, and credentials as an AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) and Certified Welding Educator (CWE).
FutureMakers celebrates those who help students develop durable skills that employers across industries value. Mr. Massing integrates these skills daily. Through his leadership in hardwood lumber grading certification and welding instruction aligned with AWS standards, students gain specialized skills that are in high demand across Arkansas and the surrounding region. Many of his graduates leave with certifications and hands-on experiences that set them apart as they enter the workforce or continue into apprenticeships and technical training programs.
Beyond technical instruction, Massing is a mentor and advocate for his students. He collaborates with local industries to create meaningful partnerships, giving students opportunities to experience real job-site environments, build professional networks, and develop skills integral to job placement.
Looking ahead, Massing is expanding access to advanced certifications and dual-enrollment opportunities while incorporating career-aligned projects in construction, cabinetry, and agriculture-based technical programs. These initiatives further connect classroom learning to in-demand workforce pathways.
"Andy doesn’t just teach; he builds futures," said Erica Hart, Principal at Gurdon High School. "By combining technical expertise, discipline from his U.S. Marine Corps background, and genuine mentorship, he helps students graduate confident, capable, and ready for whatever comes next."
The FutureMakers initiative is part of the Arkadelphia Alliance’s ongoing commitment to bridging education and workforce needs, highlighting the educators and industry leaders whose work is shaping the region’s future.
As an extension of these efforts, the Alliance will also distribute its durable skills poster, “Next Level Skills That Pay the Bills,” to schools across the region. Designed to inspire and guide students and educators, the poster highlights the essential skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-changing job market.
By displaying this resource in classrooms, the Arkadelphia Alliance aims to spark meaningful conversations about skill-building and career readiness, empowering students with the tools they need to succeed not only in the workforce but also in life.
For more information about the Arkadelphia Alliance’s workforce development efforts, visit https://arkadelphiaalliance.com/workforce/.
