About the Fellowship
Ohio Excels’ Education & Workforce Policy Fellowship is an exclusive statewide initiative designed to equip business, nonprofit, and community leaders with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change.
Fellows deepen their understanding of Ohio’s education and workforce systems, influence the development of policy and practice, and build strategic partnerships that strengthen outcomes at the local, regional, and state levels.
Through a curated series of learning sessions, site visits, policymaker conversations, and a high-impact capstone project, fellows gain actionable insights and forge authentic relationships with peers. The fellowship is rooted in adult learning principles. It is not just another training — it is a leadership experience intended to create real, measurable impact.
Why This Matters
Ohio’s future prosperity depends on strong, well-prepared citizens supported by a fully aligned education-to-workforce pipeline. Challenges such as limited access to early learning, reading, and math, increased chronic absenteeism, rising postsecondary costs, and rapidly evolving workforce demands require leadership from the business community.
This fellowship helps leaders understand and influence education and workforce systems and equips them with the tools to engage meaningfully with policymakers, educators, and employers locally, regionally, and nationally.
Benefits for Fellows
Fellows will:
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Build deep expertise in state education and workforce policy
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Grow leadership skills based on unique individual strengths
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Engage directly with legislators, state agency leaders, and leading practitioners
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Connect with a dynamic, cross-sector network of peers and a growing alumni community
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Gain recognition as a statewide leader in education and workforce development
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Complete an interest-driven capstone project with real policy impact
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Be poised to influence meaningful local, regional, and state-level policies and solutions
Who Should Apply
We welcome nominations and self-applications from business, nonprofit, and community leaders, including:
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Business executives and corporate leaders
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Nonprofit executives and community leaders
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Economic development professionals
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Corporate government affairs representatives
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Business association leaders (e.g., chambers of commerce, rotary clubs)
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Employers who participate on Business Advisory Councils
Ideal candidates are mid- to senior-level leaders who demonstrate commitment, curiosity, and passion for education and workforce improvement.
Learning Sessions and Experiences
Fellowship curriculum is shaped by fellow feedback and interests. Sessions and experiences may include:
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Fellowship kickoff offering an overview of Ohio’s P-20 education, workforce, and policy priorities
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Aim Hire Conference that elevates career-connected learning and workforce readiness
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K-12 and higher education funding deep dive
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Standards, assessments, report cards, and accountability
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School choice, myths, facts, and expert perspectives
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Technology and AI in Ohio schools
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Higher education and workforce partnerships
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Practical advocacy and statehouse engagement
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Capstone project presentations
Fellowship at a Glance
Cost & Application
Tuition
$1,500: Covers all program sessions, materials, and access to special events including the 2026 Aim Hire Conference
Financial Assistance
Applications Open
Available for applicants in need; limited scholarships available
May 14, 2026
Application Deadline
Selection Announced
Requirements
Travel & Lodging
July 15, 2026
August 1, 2026
Short online form + updated résumé + employer letter of commitment
Fellow’s responsibility
