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Thank You to Our Sponsors
Ten years of Promoting Technical Professions
2016
A Movement Begins in Arkansas
Be Pro Be Proud launched in Arkansas as a workforce initiative focused on addressing skilled labor shortages by introducing students to technical careers through interactive experiences.
2020
First Multi State Expansion
Be Pro Be Proud expanded beyond Arkansas with the launch of initiatives in Georgia and South Carolina, marking the beginning of its national growth.
2022
First National Conference
Be Pro Be Proud hosted its first National Conference in Bentonville, bringing together educators, industry partners, and workforce leaders to share best practices and collaborate on solutions.
Today
Impact Across Seven States
Be Pro Be Proud now operates in seven states, connecting students, educators, employers, and policymakers through immersive experiences that elevate skilled careers nationwide.
Featured Speaker
Josh Perkes was appointed senior vice president and chief human resources officer in August 2024. He is responsible for all human resources and labor relations functions and is a member of Union Pacific’s senior leadership team.
Previously, Perkes served as vice president-Loup Logistics, a wholly owned Union Pacific subsidiary providing innovative transportation and logistics solutions. He joined Union Pacific in 2002, and has held leadership positions on the railroad’s Marketing and Sales’ Premium, Industrial, Bulk and Operations teams, as well as across Human Resources functions such as talent management, talent acquisition, employee engagement, training, compensation and benefits. He also spent time in field sales, logistics and Operating as part of a cross-functional leadership training program.Perkes graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in English and has an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He serves as a board member for Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands.
Josh Perkes
Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Why Attend the National Conference?
National Perspective
Learn how states and organizations across the country are tackling workforce challenges and see what’s working.
Real-World Strategies
Take home actionable ideas you can apply immediately in your community or organization.
Meaningful Connections
Build relationships with peers, partners, and leaders who share your commitment to technical professions.
Forward-Looking Insight
Explore what’s next for technical education, workforce policy, and industry collaboration.