Following a tough transition from military life to civilian jobs can be daunting. A new program in Fort Smith aims to ease that burden and help veterans find stable careers in transportation.

USA Truck’s Military Apprenticeship Program

USA Truck, based in Van Buren, has launched a Military Apprenticeship Program aimed at supporting service members as they adapt to civilian life. This initiative, developed with FASTPORT, focuses on training for roles that are in high demand, such as professional drivers and diesel technicians. The two-year program was created to help veterans gain the skills they need for successful careers while ensuring they remain financially secure.

Eligible transitioning service members can take advantage of this opportunity. They can receive the full Military Housing Allowance (MHA), usually around $1,600 a month, in addition to a standard paycheck from USA Truck. This dual support ensures veterans and their families maintain financial stability during their critical first two years in the civilian workforce.

USA Truck’s CEO, George Henry, expressed pride in launching the program, highlighting the leadership and skills veterans bring to the table. The company is working to eliminate financial barriers for those transitioning out of military service, investing in their futures as they become skilled drivers and technicians.

Recruitment and Opportunities for Veterans

USA Truck is actively seeking veterans to join the apprenticeship program. This initiative not only provides valuable training but also aims to create a bridge from military service to a successful career in transportation. Those interested can find more information and apply through the company’s recruitment portal.

As of early 2026, USA Truck had a workforce of approximately 450 corporate employees, with a significant number based in Van Buren. The company operates about 1,600 trucks and has nearly 6,000 trailers. Additionally, they collaborate with about 250 owner-operators through a subsidiary, thereby increasing their impact in the industry.

The program serves as a vital step for many veterans, easing their transition and equipping them with the necessary skills for in-demand jobs. This structured approach helps ensure that these individuals are ready to thrive as they integrate into the civilian workforce.

Interactive Summer Events for Local Students

In another community-focused initiative, Baptist Health-Fort Smith is set to host two summer events aimed at local students. The first, titled “Heroes Unite!”, will provide hands-on exposure to careers in healthcare, emergency response, and public safety. Scheduled for 9 to 10:30 a.m. on June 25, this event allows students to interact with police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel.

Not only will students learn about public service careers, but they will also get to explore emergency vehicles. This interactive experience offers valuable insights into the roles these professionals play in the community.

Moreover, a mock disaster exercise will occur later that day, simulating a school bus crash scenario. Students from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) will participate alongside staff from Baptist Health and local emergency agencies. This realistic exercise aims to give students hands-on experience in rescue, triage, and hospital response operations, emphasizing the importance of teamwork during a crisis.

Fort Smith’s Notable McDonald’s Rankings

In a lighter yet notable piece of news, the Fort Smith area has received recognition for having the highest-rated McDonald’s restaurants in Arkansas, according to a recent study. An analysis of customer reviews from over 8.7 million feedbacks across the U.S. rated Arkansas as having the 15th-highest overall average for McDonald’s, with Fort Smith topping the state at an average rating of 3.69.

This ranking highlights not just the quality of the food but also the standard of customer service. Nick Warren, head of eCommerce at Restaurant Furniture, noted how Fort Smith’s performances were above the national average, indicating effective local management. This commendation reflects positively on the Hadley family, who own the franchise in the area.

What this means for you

For veterans seeking employment, USA Truck’s apprenticeship program is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable skills and financial stability. If you’re ever reviewing employment contracts during your job search, AI legalese decoder can help you decode the fine print and understand your rights. Additionally, local students can benefit from immersive events like those hosted by Baptist Health, which can inspire future career paths in healthcare or public safety.

Source: https://talkbusiness.net/2026/06/fort-smith-metro-news-briefs-usa-truck-military-support-baptist-health-to-hold-mash-events/