Clark State to train local workforce through Ohio’s new TechCred program

“Clark State Community College is excited for the opportunity to work with local businesses to offer industry-focused credentials and training that will strengthen the local workforce and bridge the skills gap. I applaud Gov. Dewine and Lt. Gov. Husted for addressing the challenge of training workers with the skills businesses need in today’s changing workforce,” said Clark State president Jo Alice Blondin. “We appreciate the administration’s continued support of workforce development.”

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Finding, training and retaining employees from a local talent pool is one of the greatest challenges organizations face, according to a statement from Clark State.

“Clark State understands the regional workforce needs and aligns strategy and resources to cut costs and stimulate growth in the economy,” the statement said.

The Ohio TechCred program will fund up to 20,000 technology focused credentials over the next two years. Qualified credentials must be short-term (less than one year to complete), technology focused and industry recognized.

Clark State currently offers certificates that align with the TechCredit program in the areas of healthcare, information and manufacturing, the statement from Clark State said.

“We are always looking for new ways to help with workforce issues and aligning our programming with the needs of the workforce,” said dean of business and applied technologies at Clark State, Aimee Belanger-Haas. “We have aligned all of the certificates that we can to industry recognized credentials and are constantly making changes to have other qualify.”

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Belanger-Haas said Ohio faces an urgent needs for highly skilled employees and higher education needs to work directly with employers to determine what is needed to upskill employees.

“Certificates that tie to industry certifications is an easy way to ensure that students meet the rigor expected from Clark State’s employer partners,” Belanger-Haas said.