The Central Ohio Manufacturing Partnership (COMP), an Ohio Manufacturers’ Association-Endorsed Industry Sector Partnership (ISP), has launched its Technician Fast Track cohort in partnership with Tolles Career & Technical Center as the related technical instruction provider. COMP is the second ISP to kick off a Technician Fast Track cohort, marking continued momentum for the statewide implementation of OMA’s employer-led technician talent model.

Developed with input from more than 45 manufacturers, Technician Fast Track is a one-year earn-and-learn model designed to accelerate technician talent development through structured on-the-job training, related technical instruction, and alignment with real workforce needs. Participating manufacturers in COMP’s cohort include Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, Engineered Profiles, Worthington Enterprises, Inc., and Cycle Start.

The launch reflects how manufacturers, ISPs, and education providers are working together to create repeatable pathways for developing entry-level technicians. Through COMP’s coordination and Tolles’ instructional partnership, the cohort will help participating employers build technician talent while supporting learners as they gain skills connected directly to manufacturing career opportunities. 7/16/2026