Tech-Ready Ohio: Your guide to upskilling and reskilling
By Emily Fabiano
In today's fast-changing economy, Ohio businesses are tapping into innovative programs to develop their workforce, strengthen teams, and stay competitive. Whether you're looking to train existing employees, attract emerging talent, or engage with untapped workforce potential, Ohio offers robust resources to help you succeed.
Why Upskilling and Reskilling Matter
Upskilling involves developing new skills in areas related to an employee's current job, while reskilling involves learning new skills for a different role or industry. Both are crucial for retaining talent and navigating technological shifts. In Ohio, public programs make it affordable and accessible to invest in your team.
Ohio's Key Workforce Programs
1. TechCred
TechCred helps Ohio employers upskill their teams with technology-focused credentials that can be completed in under a year.
Eligibility: Ohio employers with W-2 employees.
Training Options: Online and in-person programs.
Upcoming Application Period: The current TechCred application opened January 2, 2025 and will close January 31, 2025 at 3:00pm. Applications open every other month.
Learn more about TechCred | 2025 Application Dates
2. Individual Microcredential Assistance Program (IMAP)
IMAP provides no-cost credentials for low-income or unemployed Ohioans to prepare them for high-demand jobs.
For Employers: Recruit skilled graduates from IMAP training providers.
3. OhioMeansJobs Centers
These centers offer employers training programs and funding to support workforce development.
Programs Include:
Incumbent Worker Training: Upskill current employees.
Adult & Dislocated Worker Training: Hire individuals trained in high-demand fields.
Contact your local OhioMeansJobs Center.
4. Earn-and-Learn Opportunities (Apprenticeships)
Through ApprenticeOhio, employers can develop talent pipelines with registered apprenticeships for adults and pre-apprenticeships for high school students.
Eligibility: Employers across industries can apply.
Learn about apprenticeship programs.
Emerging Workforce Initiatives
5. High School Technology Internship Program
Engage tech-savvy high school students and receive reimbursements for their wages.
Financial Support: Up to $5,000 per intern for a minimum of 120 hours at $12/hour.
6. Manufacturing Internships
Partner with the Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) to train high school students in manufacturing roles.
Outcome: 80% of interns secure full-time employment after the program.
Reimbursement: Up to 50% of wages, capped at $1,500 per intern.
Learn more about MEP internships.
7. College Technology Internship Program
Hire college students to support your business's tech needs.
Financial Support: The state reimburses two-thirds of wages, up to $7,500 per intern.
Details on the College Tech Internship Program.
8. Choose Ohio First STEM Talent Network
Engage with STEM students and graduates from Ohio colleges for internships and job opportunities.
Find out more about Choose Ohio First.
Take Action
Whether you're reskilling current employees, engaging new talent, or investing in Ohio's next generation, these programs can help your business thrive.
Emily Fabiano is the Founder and President of Workmorphis. You can contact her at info@workmorphis.com or find Emily and Workmorphis on LinkedIn.