New report outlines NWA's roadmap to mobile leadership

Why it matters: The global transportation and logistics industry is valued at about $10 trillion dollars annually. Meanwhile, burgeoning industries around new tech, like flying cars and public-sector space travel, are estimated to hit $1 trillion by 2040.

The big picture: Arkansas can tap into those fields because it has a wealth of transportation-related intellect tucked into companies like Walmart, J.B. Hunt and Tyson Foods, that together manage more than 30,000 semi-trucks.

• Of note: The University of Arkansas recognized the need to fill the workforce pipeline and has a top-ranked supply chain management track.

Details: The report makes detailed recommendations in six key areas:

• Seek investments to give economic fuel to a new mobility economy.
• Fortify workforce and academia to build a qualified workforce.
• Set organizational infrastructure in the form of establishing a government office focused on advanced mobility.
• Arrange community events and storytelling to educate citizens about the benefits of the industry.

• Partner with surrounding states to leverage regional know-how.
• Make policy changes that support growth in EV and advanced mobility.

Context: Hutchinson formed the group in February, a day before announcing a collaboration between several organizations dedicated to making the state a leader in "next-generation transportation."

What's next: The council officially concluded its business upon presenting the final report to the governor.

• Hutchinson said at the news conference that the work of turning the recommendations into reality falls on the next administration and the General Assembly.

Go deeper: Read the full report or watch the news conference.