Ohio’s unemployment rate fell to a record-low 3.3% in August, while the number of filled jobs statewide reached a new high, according to Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

The numbers point to continued strength in Ohio’s labor market, but they also reinforce the workforce challenge facing manufacturers competing for talent in an already tight environment.

“A record-low unemployment rate is good news for Ohio, but it also means manufacturers have to be even more intentional about how they build their talent pipelines,” said Jessica Borza, Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) managing director of workforce services. “That means reaching people earlier, expanding earn-and-learn opportunities and making it easier for Ohioans to see a path into manufacturing careers.”

OMA is working with manufacturers and regional partners across Ohio to expand technician pathways, work-based learning and other earn-and-learn models that can bring more people into manufacturing careers. 9/21/2026