The Division of Workforce Policy and Innovation
Arkansas Department of Commerce
The Workforce Policy and Innovation Division houses both the Labor Market Information and Bureau of Labor Statistics teams. All data collected and compiled by these teams is published on Discover Arkansas.
WPI Goals
- Review data relevant to factors that may affect Labor Force Participation Rate.
- Work with Arkansas Workforce Connections and the State Workforce Development Board and ensure federal and state compliance; achieve increase employment.
- Engage in inter-agency and inter-organizational collaboration: Arkansas Workforce Connections, Re-employment, Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), external workforce development organizations and employers.
- Share state and national best practices in workforce innovations with all state government and statewide stakeholders.
You can explore Arkansas labor market information online at discover.arkansas.gov! If you need assistance finding data, would like to make a specific request, or have a question about labor market information, please contact the Division of Workforce Policy and Innovation at the Arkansas Department of Commerce.
Susan Price, [email protected], 501.682.3103
Belinda Gomez, [email protected], 501.682.3118
Brian Rogers, [email protected], 501.537.6742
Charisse Childers, PhD, [email protected], 501-682-3394
If you are associated with the media or press, please contact [email protected].
Labor Force Data
How is Labor Force Data Used?
Below are just a few examples of how labor market information is utilized across various sectors to inform decision-making, drive economic growth, and support individuals in navigating their careers.
- Job Search and Career Planning: Labor market information helps individuals identify high-demand industries and occupations, explore wage trends, and understand regional job opportunities. It also aids career planning by highlighting growth sectors, required skills, and advancement opportunities.
- Recruitment and Hiring: Employers rely on labor market information to tailor their recruitment strategies, target specific talent pools, and offer competitive compensation packages to attract skilled candidates.
- Workforce Development and Career Counseling: Educators, training providers, career counselors, and advisors rely on labor market information to design relevant curricula, develop training programs, and offer guidance on career options. This information provides insights into industry growth prospects, job stability, and necessary qualifications.
- Policy Formulation and Government Reporting: Labor market information informs policymakers and regulatory agencies to shape workforce policies and evaluate policy effectiveness.
- Economic Analysis: Labor market information is used to analyze employment trends, demographics, wages, and other factors. It helps economists assess economic health, analyze employment patterns, and forecast future trends.
Quick Links to Data
Labor Force Activity by County
Report: Labor Force Activity by County January 2024
Presentation Slides: Labor Force Activity by County January 2024
Understanding Labor Force Participation Rates
Understanding Labor Force Participation Rates: November 2023
(Fall 2023 WIOA Partners’ Meeting Presentation)
