Cuyahoga Community College joins Ohio To Work program
As part of the Ohio To Work network, Cuyahoga Community College offers training in manufacturing technology, IT, and healthcare, aimed at Ohioans who were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) is now a participant in Ohio To Work, a statewide program created to connect out-of-work residents of Ohio to education, skills assessment, and career support services. With input from area employers, the program is attempting to zero-in on the skills needed for the most in-demand positions and ensure that workers have access to training programs that will prepare them for those positions. As a local educator, Tri-C provides training in some of the most common fields, including CNC machining, welding, Cisco systems, and patient care.
The Ohio To Work initiative is led by JobsOhio, in partnership with MAGNET, as explained in a news release from Tri-C. Ethan Karp, CEO of MAGNET, said that Ohio is experiencing a high level of job displacement. Ohio To Work attempts to alleviate that through coordinated efforts between job creators and training providers. "This is about Ohio coming together and working collaboratively to solve really difficult problems — things that for years have prevented the best talent from entering industries in which people are desperately needed," Karp said.
Frank Brickner, interim executive director and CEO of OhioMeansJobs Cleveland-Cuyahoga County, noted that the landscape has changed for many Ohio residents. "Life has changed in unexpected and challenging ways," Brickner stated, adding, "We need to make sure we are here for the community, whether they need to find another job now, get their career on track or reassess plans and explore new training opportunities."
With programs in manufacturing, IT, and healthcare, Tri-C is a training provider for the Cuyahoga County area. Many local businesses have committed to interviewing those who have completed one of the programs. Executive Vice President of Workforce, Community and Economic Development at Tri-C William Gary described the program, saying, "Ohio To Work focuses on employers, existing service providers and displaced workers. We are excited to be a part of this workforce ecosystem, readying individuals for in-demand jobs that provide livable wages."