Future State Careers is a full-service job placement and recruiting firm dedicated to helping match exceptional candidates and employers in Central Arkansas and beyond.

Future State Careers was built on a simple belief: business doesn’t have to be cold, transactional, and impersonal. We were exhausted from the robotic, numbers-first approach. The kind that treats people like data points and companies like checklists.

So we built something different. A company that delivers exceptional results without cutting corners on what actually matters: doing things the right way and treating people right.

  • Elite Handpicked Talent: We don’t just send résumés—we deliver impact players in Accounting, Finance, IT, and more.
  • Zero Wasted Time: Every candidate is pre-vetted for skill, culture fit, and long-term success—so you’re only seeing the best.
  • Seamless Hiring: We optimize your hiring process, cutting through inefficiencies to get you results—fast.
  • Insider Expertise: We go beyond filling roles. Get market insights, strategic hiring advice, and a recruiting partner who actually moves the needle.

Most hiring is a numbers game. We don’t play that game. We find the people who move the needle—who make companies better, stronger, and built to last.

Market conditions change, so we can’t stay stagnant. We cut through outdated playbooks and show you what works, what doesn’t, and what’s next.

Quick wins fade. Real success lasts. We’re in this with you, making sure you’re built to grow, evolve, and win long-term.

We believe ‘who’ is everything – starting with us.

Jacob Stripling

After a decade in recruiting, I’m over “business as usual” and I love working with people who feel the same. My goal has always been to build a company where people love to be, and where that shows in how we treat others.  I prefer to drop the corporate fluff and just be real, even if it’s not for everyone.

My family and friends mean everything to me. I love spending time with them, and I love the Chicago Cubs. If you want to know anything else, just ask!

jacob@futurestatecareers.com

501.837.1840

Grant Wood

I got into recruiting because I have a passion for people – learning their stories, building genuine connections, and helping them find positions that align with their goals. Recruiting has given me the opportunity to network and be the best resource I can be for so many individuals.

Born and raised in Central Arkansas, I’ve always been passionate about the community here. I spend most of my time with family, friends, and my dog, Mo. I also enjoy watching Razorback games and trying to make a par or two on the golf course.

gwood@futurestatecareers.com

501.551.7781

Austin Crawford

In my career, I strive to always do what’s right for both clients and candidates, keeping myself in the background while making sure everything runs smoothly. My focus is on building trust and being someone they can always count on.

My time in the military shaped a lot of who I am today. Serving taught me discipline, integrity, and the importance of putting others first—values that I carry into my work every day.

When I’m not working, I’m always on the move. I love new challenges—whether it’s hunting, camping, hiking, weightlifting, running, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. To unwind, I keep up with sports, especially the greatest college football team of all time, the Arkansas Razorbacks. But above all, my number one priority is my wife and son. Everything I do is driven by my commitment to them and doing right by my family.

acrawford@futurestatecareers.com

501.813.5592