A state program that helps businesses find and train employees with the skills they need is accepting applications from employers interested in joining the effort.
Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted on Thursday announced that the next online application period for TechCred will be open through the month of January.
TechCred connects businesses with the talent they need and gives employees the ability to earn industry-recognized, technology-focused credentials.
The goal is to better prepare these employees for a job in today’s advanced, technology-infused economy, according to the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation. Husted serves as the office’s director.
“TechCred’s first application period demonstrated the value Ohio businesses see in upskilling their existing workforce,” said Husted. “Based on feedback we received from businesses, we expanded the credentials eligible for funding, and I encourage Ohio employers to connect with us.”
The initiative allows businesses to identify the specific qualifications they need and employees they want to upskill toward a more advanced position. Then, in partnership with a training provider, the employer can apply online on TechCred’s application portal here and the state will reimburse up to $2,000 of training upon completion of a credential.
“Businesses are looking for workers with the skills needed to compete in the global marketplace,” said Ohio Economic Development Director Lydia Mihalik. “TechCred will help upskill workers with up-to-date credentials to advance their careers.”
Following the first round of TechCred, applications were approved for 234 Ohio employers, resulting in 1,576 credentials that will help upskill Ohio workers. Over 200 additional technology-focused credentials were also approved for inclusion and potential funding through the TechCred program, as requested by Ohio businesses.
Husted started the TechCred program in October to help businesses pay to upgrade worker skills by earning one of 379 “micro-degrees” available at approved schools and training sites, according to a story by Crain’s Cleveland Business.
“Every industry is tech focused. There is no industry that is does not have a tech component,” he said. “Manufacturing is tech, aviation is tech, logistics in some cases is tech, all sectiors (sic) have tech-infused jobs today.”
Clark State Community College is one institution that has rushed to participate in offering training, according to a story by the Springfield News-Sun. Clark State offers qualifying certificates in healthcare, information and manufacturing.
TechCred will fund up to 20,000 technology focused credentials over the next two years, the News-Sun said. Qualified credentials must take less than one year to complete, and be technology-focused and industry-recognized.
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Jason M. Reynolds has more than 20 years’ experience as a journalist at outlets of all sizes.
Photo “Ohio Statehouse” by Mj. CC BY-SA 4.0.
