Ohio CEOs unite to champion computer science education in new statewide initiative

More than 100 Ohio business CEOs and tech leaders have come together to advocate for computer science education through the newly launched “Ohio for Computer Science” initiative.

Spearheaded by OhioX, the group released an open letter urging state policymakers to make computer science a priority in K-12 education. The letter highlights the growing need for tech skills in the digital economy, especially in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). Business leaders believe that building a tech-savvy workforce starts in the classroom and is a key to ensuring Ohio’s future competitiveness.

A diverse ranges of CEOs, representing a number of industries and sectors and coming from all corners of Ohio were part of the original 100+ signatories. Any interested Ohio CEO is welcome to join by visiting www.OhioforCS.com and signing the pledge.

The business need

The launch of Ohio for Computer Science follows this week’s Code.org release of their annual 2024 State of Computer Science Report. The report includes some alarming trends for Ohio:

  • Ohio had the largest total number of schools, 147, stop offering computer science of any state in the country.

  • Only 61% of Ohio high schools offer computer science.

  • Ohio trails neighboring states such as Indiana (91%), West Virginia (78%), and Pennsylvania (75%).

What they’re saying

“In today’s economy, every company is a tech company,” said Chris Berry, President and CEO of OhioX. “With the rise of AI, tech education is no longer optional—it’s essential. Building Ohio into a leading tech hub requires a strong tech-focused workforce and that starts with giving every student a chance to learn computer science.”

“Although Ohio has made great strides prioritizing policy that supports computer science in recent years, we still see Ohio trailing most of its surrounding states in the percentage of high schools offering this foundational subject,” said Julia Wynn, Director of State Government Affairs at Code.org. “As Ohio looks to position its students for today’s in-demand jobs, computer science education can play a critical role in helping students develop the critical thinking, digital and data skills, and creative problem-solving needed in whatever career they choose.” 

What’s next

OhioX will continue outreach to additional CEOs and tech leaders across Ohio to join the pledge. As this tech coalition grows, more direct outreach to elected officials is planned in the coming months. There are a number of ways for businesses to get more deeply engaged in this initiative, including through tech internships and volunteering opportunities.

For more details on the “Ohio for Computer Science” initiative, please continue to visit www.OhioforCS.com.

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