Arkansas college gets $3 million grant for truck studies

Students at the University of Central Arkansas' business school will soon have a chance to study motor carrier safety, operational excellence, and industry regulation, thanks to a $3 million endowment gift to the Conway, Ark., school.

Awarded by the Arkansas Commercial Truck Safety and Education Program (ACTSEP), the grant will help expand the school's supply chain logistics management program, support faculty and student research, and establish a scholarship program.

Beginning with the 2015-2016 academic year, business students at the school will be able to pursue a four-year major in supply chain logistics management that includes the study of motor carrier operations, regulation, safety, risk management, transportation policy, and labor relations.

"Trucking companies must employ properly trained managers to operate safely and profitably," said Doug Voss, associate professor of logistics and supply chain management at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA), in a press release. "UCA students will lead the trucking industry in safety, operational excellence, and future regulatory discussions."

Founded in 2013 by the Arkansas Highway Commission, ACTSEP was formed to promote roadway safety in the state, primarily through increased regulatory compliance, industry training, and education programs. The commission also awarded money to the Arkansas Trucking Association and the Arkansas Highway Police.