This featured partner is currently the Vice President of Quality at Lexicon, Inc. Meet Viji Kuruvilla! What are the benefits of partnering with UACCM for yourself and the college? Lexicon is one of the most highly regarded and fastest-growing companies in the construction field. We believe in preparing Arkansas’s future workforce and providing them with excellent career opportunities in the construction field. Lexicon is family-owned and operated, so our team is dedicated to providing a good quality of life for our employees and their families. Partnering with UACCM in developing educational programs and curricula offers exciting opportunities for students and creates win-win opportunities for UACCM and industries in Arkansas. Why should others serve on advisory boards? If you are successful in your field, giving back to prepare the next generation is very satisfying. It is important to share best practices on lessons learned, critical decision-making, skills to help overcome challenge...

Mother-daughter duo Miyahna and Ramiah Cook are taking do-it-yourself to the next level. When  Ramiah was considering her future plans, she knew she had an interest in interior design after her family’s recent home remodel. Her mother, Miyahna, proposed that she go to school to learn the basics of the construction behind the interior design, but she also had another proposal: that her mother do it with her. At first, Ramiah was apprehensive. “When she told me that she would do it, I’m like, ‘You sure?’ because I have a little brother that she had to take care of and all that.” Turns out, the experience was beneficial for both of them. Whether it was studying for tests, providing encouragement to one another, or taking turns driving – although Ramiah admits she much prefers when her mom drives – the pair made the best of their time together. Miyahna and Ramiah also had the opportunity to put their skills to the test at the Arkansas SkillsUSA competition earlier this year. While ne...