For years, anything earned less than a four-year college degree was viewed somewhat with disdain. Vocational and trade schools, internships, and other educational alternatives were not believed to be as impressive as the traditional university programs.

Those seeking the alternative venues were seen back then as slackers, those with Lucky Strike smokes rolled up in their T-shirt sleeves and dirty fingernails.

That has all changed now, and two-year community colleges, technical training and other job programs have filled many jobs in Arkansas. They have also kept people in the state, increased its tax base and helped communities expand.

The phenomenon is having a domino effect as the educational alternatives continue to grow and more students seek them out.

…

Click here to read the full article in Arkansas Money & Politics.