The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) recently held the first regional launch academies for the JobsOhio Technician Path in northwest and west Ohio, marking an important step in OMA’s role as the statewide Concierge Lead. The launch academies are designed to equip regional Concierge Service Providers with shared information, resources, and service standards, so employers experience clear and coordinated support as they explore the initiative.

JobsOhio Technician Path is designed to help manufacturers invest in technician talent through eligible pathways, including technical certificates, associate degrees, and Registered Apprenticeship Programs. OMA is working with regional Concierge Service Providers to build a statewide framework for implementation while ensuring regional partners can apply their local expertise, employer relationships, and knowledge of available training pathways.

In northwest Ohio, the regional Concierge Service Provider is a consortium of Industry Sector Partnerships, including Advanced Manufacturing Consortium, Great Lakes Industry Sector Partnership, Northwest Ohio Manufacturing Alliance, Raise the Bar Hancock County, and Workforce Partnership of Putnam County. In west Ohio, the regional Concierge Service Provider is the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education. Through this role, regional partners help manufacturers move from interest to action by navigating earn-and-learn pathways, connecting with training partners, and exploring opportunities to build or expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs aligned to technician workforce needs.

OMA will continue holding launch academies across JobsOhio’s regions to support consistent statewide implementation and regional readiness. Employers interested in learning more about JobsOhio Technician Path are encouraged to connect with their regional Concierge Service Provider to explore next steps. 9/23/2026