MBA program offers on-site courses for ArcBest employees

Feb. 9, 2017 | MBA |

With a goal of aiding busy professionals seeking to complete an MBA, the Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration began conducting on-site MBA classes for ArcBest employees in its Fort Smith, Arkansas, headquarters location last month. The first student group of approximately 12 employees began classes Jan. 9.

The arrangement with ArcBest allows employees to enroll in Harding’s MBA program and complete nearly the entirety of their classes at their place of business. Classes meet once weekly, facilitating completion of two classes each semester. Employees have the opportunity to take electives online in the summer or enroll in an on-site elective tailored to their industry.

“Many of these students might not be able to participate in an MBA program if we didn’t come to them,” said Glen Metheny, director of the graduate school of business. “The on-site format provides them with the ability to receive an outstanding education and the opportunity for advancement in their organization.”

ArcBest places an emphasis on leadership development and continued education for its employees.

“At ArcBest, we want to ensure our employees have the tools they need to grow in their careers,” said Erin K. Gattis, chief human resources officer for ArcBest. “We are excited to partner with Harding University to provide employees a convenient option to further their education.”

The University has conducted a similar arrangement with Murphy USA in El Dorado, Arkansas, for the past decade. Approximately 50 Murphy USA employees have completed their MBA since on-site classes began in 2007.

“These cohorts provide a real advantage for the employer to partner with the University to enrich and develop their employees,” said Allen Frazier, dean of the College of Business Administration. “Employees will increase their knowledge bank, and new doors will be opened to them after obtaining their MBA.”

Companies interested in starting a Harding University MBA cohort on site or online may contact the Harding MBA program at 501-279-4240 or email mba@harding.edu.

ArcBest is a multibillion-dollar logistics company with creative problem solvers who have “The Skill and The Will” to deliver integrated logistics solutions. Headquartered in Fort Smith since 1923, ArcBest employs more than 13,000 people across North America.