The Southern Fried Podcast: Steel, aerospace, and economic developments in Mississippi County with County Judge John Alan Nelson
Mississippi County Judge John Alan Nelson was recently interviewed by Arkansas Democrat Gazette’s Rex Nelson on his Southern Fried Podcast. Listen to the interview here.
By Rex Nelson - July 12, 2024
Original story: https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2024/jul/12/steel-aerospace-and-economic-development-in-mississippi-county-with-county-judge-john-alan-nelson/
On this week’s episode, Mississippi County Judge John Alan Nelson joins Rex to talk about economic and industrial developments in Mississippi County, including efforts to attract industry and new residents to the area.
The pair begin their conversation with a discussion of the county's booming steel industry, touching on U.S. Steel Corporation's recent acquisition of Big River Steel and the opening of several steel mills in the area, which has created hundreds of new jobs.
John also discusses the potential for aerospace development in the area, particularly utilizing the Arkansas Aeroplex in Blytheville. He describes how the aeroplex has attracted interest from companies throughout the globe.
Rex asks John about how county officials are working to attract more people to live and work in the county, and the judge mentions several efforts being made to improve infrastructure to support economic growth, such as the "Live Here, Work Here" program.
To conclude the conversation, Rex and John discuss Arkansas Northeastern College in Blytheville and the crucial role the school plays in ensuring the development of a skilled workforce.
