Three years ago, Madison Finch was on a path that had nothing to do with the construction industry. After graduating from high school, this Vilonia native found herself with a successful full-time job and an associate degree. She was one of the first graduates of the Vilonia Pathways Program, a partnership between Vilonia Pathways Academy and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. This program allowed students to earn an associate degree in construction science while still in high school.

An Unreal Achievement

Finch vividly recalls the moment when she realized the significance of finishing high school with both a diploma and an associate degree. "It seemed unreal," she says. "This is my biggest accomplishment so far, and it made me realize that I am capable of much more than I thought. It wasn't easy, but the hard work was worth it."

Working Together for Success

Cathy Riggins, the retired assistant superintendent of Vilonia Public Schools who played a crucial role in launching the concurrent program, emphasizes the importance of putting students at the center. "This program is a great example of how schools can collaborate to create a beneficial program that meets the needs of students and attracts workers to a growing industry," she says. "People in the construction industry are some of the best. This program offers students a chance to live the American dream and have the life they've always wanted by working for an Arkansas company and fulfilling a workforce development need."

Gaining Practical Experience

Finch decided to join Vilonia Pathways Academy with her older brother. The siblings made honor roll together, and her brother went on to work in the heat and air industry. During her time at Vilonia Pathways Academy, Finch worked at Weaver Bailey Contractors in Conway as an intern. This internship exposed her to various aspects of the company, including project management, human resources, accounting, and safety. "By the time I graduated, I already knew what I wanted to do," she says.

Opening Doors with a Degree

After earning her high school diploma from Vilonia Pathways Academy and her associate degree from UA Little Rock this spring, Finch was hired as a full-time safety technician at Weaver Bailey Contractors. "Having this degree has been a game-changer," she says. "It has helped me get the job I have now and has opened up so many opportunities. I've been offered jobs, and I feel like I'm a step ahead of most people my age. I'm gaining valuable experience while others are still trying to figure out their path."