While the number of Arkansans looking for work has remained steady, one potential source for substantial new job growth could be the renewable energy field.

Earlier this week, UALR's College of Engineering and Information Technology joined the National Academy of Sciences in hosting the "Building the Arkansas Innovation Economy" symposium over two days at the Clinton Center.

Innovate Arkansas' Jeff Amerine was there and came away optimistic for the future of renewable energy in the state and the jobs that industry could grow. An excerpt:

In addition to the attraction of global wind turbine manufacturers, Arkansas has a unique facility in the University of Arkansas Research Park called the National Center for Reliable Electric Power Transmission (NCREPT). The facility, led by Dr. Alan Mantooth and managed by T.A. Walton, allows researchers to test power grid power electronics, systems for hybrid electric vehicles, and advanced battery technologies ...

... the ingredients for Arkansas to be a worldwide center of excellence in renewable energy technology are right here before us, right here in our backyard. The Governor believes we can be a center of innovation.  I’m convinced we can do it.

What do InArkansas readers think? Is renewable energy an area in which Arkansas could see job growth? Let us know what you think.