Workforce Development
Building a Connected, Employer-Centered Learning System for Ongoing Training
Policy Principles
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Lifelong learning is essential in the age of artificial intelligence and rapid technological change. Ohio’s systems must make continuous skill development an accessible and expected part of every Ohioan’s journey.
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State and local partners should reconnect all Ohioans to upskilling and advancement opportunities aligned with industry and workforce needs.
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Employer-driven partnerships make learning relevant, affordable, and timely, helping Ohioans gain in-demand skills while strengthening business talent pipelines.
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Ohio must design flexible, inclusive systems for adult learners, addressing barriers through innovative delivery, supportive services, and access to further education and training.
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Ohio’s workforce system must center on worker and employer needs. Programs, eligibility rules, and funding streams should be aligned around outcomes for people and businesses—not institutional processes.
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Public investments should prioritize quality, measurable outcomes. Funding should focus on credentials and programs that lead to wage gains, employment, and career mobility.
Advocacy Priorities
TechCred Sustainability and Expansion
Strengthen and expand the TechCred program by tightening the definition of “industry-recognized” credentials, reviewing the current list, creating a training provider approval process, and establishing financial frameworks to ensure the program’s long-term sustainability.
Unemployment Insurance Wage Match
Improve the state’s ability to use long-term employment outcomes by collecting the right level detail for wage data through unemployment insurance reporting and connecting it to education records.
Workforce Pell
Push the state to quickly implement the new Pell program for short-term and non-credit programs by using actual workforce data to ensure eligible programs and credentials are high-quality, align with in-demand occupations, and promote upward mobility.
Connecting the Unconnected
Expand opportunities for adults and underserved youth (including possibly justice-involved youth) to upskill through programs like TechCred, short-term credentials, and degree programs aligned with their career goals.
