Faith, freedom and family are paramount in our culture. But those values are best supported when people have access to meaningful work–jobs that provide a livable wage and opportunities to grow. A healthy work-life balance depends on that foundation.

Lexicon University, Lexicon Inc.’s internal workforce development initiative, has a proven track record of developing skilled workers, enhancing their ability to provide for their families while also contributing to Arkansas’ growth. I recognize the value of that path because I grew up on something similar. I relied on work ethic, skill achievement and integrity to move forward in life. Looking back, I see how finishing a project–even when it left me exhausted–gave me a deep sense of pride and shaped my future.

Now, in my role as chief workforce officer for Arkansas, I have the opportunity to champion the trades and celebrate the men and women who build our state. All work is dignified and should be honored. Whether a person chooses college, an apprenticeship, or both, enhancing a person’s skills and capabilities is always a win. That’s the truth I carry with me into every conversation about workforce development.

It has been my privilege to witness the incredible products built by Lexicon and other manufacturers across Arkansas. The highlight of my travels is not the facilities themselves, but the people inside them–often humble, unassuming individuals doing extraordinary work. By the sweat of their brow and through the creativity of their efforts, they help power our economy. Their satisfaction at the end of a hard day’s work is matched only by the pride their families feel in them.

The leadership at Lexicon understands this. They have invested in high school career and technical programs and continue to hire motivated individuals who never stop learning. Don’t let the name “Lexicon University” fool you. It isn’t a traditional classroom. It’s a structured, hands-on approach to accelerating a person’s career trajectory through real-world learning and discovery. There’s little time spent in formal classrooms; instead, Lexicon employees develop their next sequence of skills on the job, only limited by their own drive and motivation.

I recently had the honor of joining Lexicon University’s third and largest graduating class–40 men and women earning steel diplomas in industrial maintenance and welding. Every time I meet a graduate, I see the same look of pride and honor on their faces as they accept their diplomas. But what moves me most is watching their families celebrate alongside them. These moments are life-changing for the graduates, their households and the communities they represent. I am always honored to be a part of the celebration.

Because I come from a similar background, without the benefit of formal support or structure, I know how transformative opportunities like this can be. That’s why I will always choose to promote and cheer for those who strive to be their best, no matter the obstacles.

The Lexicon family and its leadership share that commitment. They have built a culture where people rely on each other’s skills, competence and character. Seeing a company invest in its workforce and provide clear pathways to success is inspirational and essential to the future of our state.

From colossal steel structures used for massive buildings, infrastructure and even space travel, Lexicon’s products are impressive. But what’s truly mesmerizing is the people behind it all–the men and women who show up every day, shoulder to shoulder, working toward a common purpose: to build America.

So today, I congratulate the graduates of the August Lexicon University class, and I congratulate Lexicon for showing Arkansas what’s possible when a company commits to its people first.

Mike Rogers serves as Arkansas’ first-ever chief workforce officer and chairs Gov. Sarah Sanders’ workforce cabinet.