Ohio earmarks funding for workforce training

Ohio has set allocated $34 million in funding for the new Innovative Workforce Incentive Program. Image by Neon Brand for Unsplash.

The Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation and the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) announced a list of industry-recognized credentials eligible for $34 million under the new Innovative Workforce Incentive Program. The program was developed by Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly so students could earn in-demand, industry-recognized credentials.

According to ODE, the program includes $9 million in the state’s two-year budget for grants to assist school districts, community schools, joint vocational schools, and STEM schools in establishing credential programs to prepare students for careers in priority industry sectors.

School districts are also eligible to receive a share of $25 million over the current state budget to encourage the start of additional credential programs. Under this program, schools can receive $1,250 for each qualifying credential earned by students.

“When Ohio students graduate high school, they should be college or career ready,” said Governor DeWine. “This program helps schools expand credentialing opportunities and ensures potential employers that students have the skills they need to succeed in high-wage, in-demand fields.”

Ohio’s MACC Tech program (Mining, Asphalt, Concrete, Construction Technology) is among the programs approved by ODE. It provides a 12-point industry credential for high school students.

“We applaud the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, ODE, and the Ohio General Assembly for providing funding to jumpstart important, groundbreaking programs like MACC Tech,” said Pat Jacomet, executive director of the Ohio Aggregates and Industrial Minerals Association. “OAIMA members and our industry partners are excited to get started!”

Find more information on high school industry-recognized credentials here.