Wage Reimbursement for Manufacturing Internships

Last week, we briefed you on Ohio’s new TechCred program. Here’s another reimbursement opportunity for manufacturers who want to grow their workforce talent.

Manufacturers hiring interns through the Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) High School Internship Program can be reimbursed 50% of student wages — up to a maximum of $1,500 per student. Interns must be enrolled in one of Ohio’s career tech high schools. Students in welding, CNC machining, engineering, waste management, cyber security, robotics, and alternative energy programs are all eligible.

Funding is available until Sept. 30, 2020 — or until funds are expended, whichever comes first. For more information or to apply, use this email address — or contact your local Ohio MEP Partner based upon the region in which you are located.

Northeast Ohio’s MAGNET notes that last year, 80% of interns in the MEP program were hired at the end of their internship. (Note: The OMA has published guidance for manufacturers interested in having 16- and 17-year-old students work part-time in their facility under the supervision of a mentor.) 10/3/2019