Ohio Defense Manufacturing Community Begins Effort to Grow Its Workforce

Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announced this week that work has begun in response to a federal program aimed at expanding domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.

Last year, Ohio was designated as a Defense Manufacturing Community and awarded a $5 million Department of Defense grant to improve manufacturing processes, while training workers for next-generation jobs. The grant will be supplemented by a $1.25 million cash match, which includes $650,000 from the Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP).

The OMA is a partner in this three-year effort that will help at least 26 small and medium-sized defense manufacturers implement advanced technologies and build a more skilled workforce. With the help of OMA-endorsed industry sector partnerships, a minimum of 400 new credentials will be awarded to workers. Businesses interested in joining the Ohio Defense Manufacturing Community project should email the OMA’s Sara Tracey. 6/9/2021