by J.D. Davidson
Anyone in Ohio can now get up to $3,000 in taxpayer funds to pay for a workforce training or tech-focused credential.
The grants, which reimburse training providers like two-year and four-year colleges and universities, began for only low-income, partially employed or unemployed people in the state and has been expanded to everyone today.
“As more and more businesses move to or expand in our state, we must continue to create opportunities for Ohioans to earn the skills they need and growing and improving programs like IMAP help us do that,” Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said. “I look forward to seeing how the expansion of the program will positively impact our workforce and Ohioans as they earn the skills businesses need for free through IMAP.”
The grants began in 2020, and the state has reimbursed $4.2 million. The current operating budget includes $50 million to fund the TechCred and IMAP programs.
The programs available are almost all tech-based but electrical, HVAC and welding are included.
High school juniors and seniors are also eligible for the program if their schools do not offer similar college credit plus options. Also, people in jail or prison can participate if they are eligible for release within a year of the date the credential is expected to be earned.
“Individuals from all walks of life are now able to access training programs, equipping them with high-demand tech credentials and paving the way for better jobs,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “This program lays the foundation for economic growth in the state and a more competitive and resilient workforce.”
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An Ohio native, J.D. Davidson is a veteran journalist with more than 30 years of experience in newspapers in Ohio, Georgia, Alabama and Texas. He has served as a reporter, editor, managing editor and publisher. Davidson is a regional editor for The Center Square.
Photo “TechCred Program” by techcred.ohio.gov.
