The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) this week applauded the Senate Education Committee’s unanimous passage of Senate Bill 328, OMA-supported legislation aimed at strengthening Ohio’s education-to-workforce alignment through expanded career exploration, improved coaching consistency and greater transparency on workforce outcomes.

The bill would create the Education and Workforce Return on Investment Initiative, require structured middle school career exploration and establish a statewide career coaching framework to better connect education pathways with labor market demand.

“This is about building the talent pipeline earlier and with greater clarity,” said Lindsey Short, OMA managing director of energy and advocacy services. “When students understand how coursework connects to real careers and employers are part of the process, outcomes improve for families and for Ohio’s economy.”

Senate Bill 328 now heads to the full Senate before moving to the House for consideration. OMA said sustainable funding, phased implementation and strong employer partnerships, including through its Career Ambassador Program, will be essential to ensuring the legislation delivers measurable workforce results. 5/14/2026