The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) launched a new statewide pilot of the Manufacturing Career Ambassador Program through COMP, an OMA-endorsed Industry Sector Partnership. The program equips manufacturing professionals to serve as Ambassadors — partnering with local schools to bring real-world manufacturing careers into the classroom. By sharing firsthand experiences and career pathways, Ambassadors help students understand high-growth manufacturing opportunities and the futures they can build in Ohio.

The pilot officially kicked off on Jan. 16 with 20 manufacturers completing ambassador training through COMP. Trained by workforce professionals and equipped with ready-to-use presentations, activities, and tools, ambassadors are prepared to engage schools in meaningful, grade-appropriate ways to strengthen the local talent pipelines. The effort reflects a coordinated statewide partnership among COMP, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, and the Ohio STEM Learning Network.

Manufacturers interested in participating can learn more about the program, explore ambassador tools, and access classroom-ready resources at MakingOhio.com. 1/21/2026