The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) this week urged lawmakers to support Senate Bill 328, saying Ohio must reach students earlier with clear, consistent career guidance if the state is going to meet its long-term workforce needs.

Testifying before the House Education Committee, Lindsey Daniels, HR manager for GFS Chemicals, said manufacturers continue to face workforce shortages and need stronger alignment between schools, students and employers.

“Career decisions begin earlier than many realize, and students cannot prepare for opportunities they do not understand exist,” Daniels said. “Providing structured exposure to career pathways before high school helps increase participation in career-technical education, manufacturing pathways and other high-demand programs.”

Daniels also highlighted OMA’s Career Ambassador Program, which trains manufacturers to engage more effectively with K-12 students and educators by translating manufacturing careers into student-friendly language, connecting classroom subjects to real careers and reinforcing professional skills.

“Meaningful career exploration requires intentional engagement,” Daniels said. “Simply sending a technical expert into a classroom is not enough.”

OMA said Senate Bill 328 aligns with proven strategies already working across Ohio, while encouraging lawmakers to ensure sustainable funding, flexibility for districts and a phased implementation timeline. 6/8/2026