Workforce

Last week, the OMA’s Managing Director of Workforce Services, Jessica Borza, represented Ohio’s manufacturing sector on a panel at the 2024 SelectUSA Investment Summit in National Harbor, Maryland.

The summit highlighted the importance of continued engagement in global economic discussions to foster growth and investment opportunities. Moderated by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Borza discussed the Ohio systems and initiatives supporting current manufacturers and attracting future investments. 6/26/2024

This week, the Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 198 which lowers barriers to employment for justice-impacted citizens by providing them with state ID cards and copies of vocational training or work records upon release.

The OMA previously provided testimony supporting the bill, highlighting how Senate Bill 198 addresses critical workforce needs by aiding in the reintegration of untapped talent pools into the labor market, essential for sustaining the growth of Ohio’s manufacturing sector. The bill will now move to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration. 6/26/2024

On Wednesday, Jessica Borza, Managing Director of Workforce Services at the OMA, served as a keynote speaker at the 2024 Economic Future Forum in Spokane, Washington.

The event, hosted by the International Economic Development Council, gathered economic development professionals from across the nation to discuss industry trends and share innovative strategies.

Borza highlighted the OMA-Endorsed Industry Sector Partnership Network and the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model as key components to strengthening workforce development. 6/19/2024

The Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model was recently highlighted in a federal policy memo by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, highlighting the framework of incorporating knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA’s) that enhance training and education programs, setting a common language and standard for manufacturing workforce development statewide.

The Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model is garnering national attention as a valuable resource for manufacturers and educators. Manufacturers are encouraged to engage with and endorse the model. 6/19/2024

A recent report from the WorkRise Network underscores the importance of aligning economic development with workforce development policies to enhance support for entry-level and low-wage workers.

The report suggests integrated strategies, like the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, that connect economic growth with improved job quality and broader access to opportunities for these workers, supporting both immediate and long-term workforce sustainability. 6/19/2024

The Ohio Legislature is currently considering Senate Bill 273, which would make childcare more affordable by splitting costs equally among families, employers, and the state. This program would ease the financial burden on families and significantly enhance workforce stability For manufacturers interested in strategies to support and advance women in their workforce, check out the OMA’s Untapped Talent Resource Library. 6/13/2024

The OMA participated in the Industry and Inclusion 2024 National Convening in Detroit last week. The Industry and Inclusion 3.0 initiative, spearheaded by The Century Foundation and the Urban Manufacturing Alliance, focuses on practical strategies to tackle ongoing workforce challenges by engaging untapped talent pools. The OMA shared how current initiatives are helping manufacturers enhance their workforce development strategies for attracting and retaining untapped talent, underscoring a robust response to industry needs, and illustrating long-term career advancement opportunities for jobseekers. 6/13/2024

The June Urban Manufacturing Alliance (UMA) Conference, “Co-Creating the Conditions for an Inclusive Workforce”, took place in Detroit, Michigan, last week, focusing on engaging employers in effective workforce strategies. OMA Senior Director of Workforce Services, Beth Hahn, was invited to share best practices coming out of Ohio’s proactive approach to workforce development, including the ISP Network strategy, the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, and the OMA’s Untapped Talent Training Series initiative. 6/13/2024

The Ohio House this week passed House Bill 432, which would greatly expand the ability of individuals to qualify for a career-technical license issued by the State Board of Education. Under current law, the superintendent of a school district that has agreed to employ an applicant must make a request to the State Board in order to begin the process of licensure issuance. Under the bill, the applicant may apply for a license without obtaining an offer of employment. The OMA previously testified in support of the bill, and will continue to monitor its progress through the legislature. 6/12/2024

Intel’s plans for its Ohio facility aim to position it as a central hub for artificial intelligence-driven semiconductor production creating numerous high-skill job opportunities in Ohio. Manufacturers and industry leaders in Ohio can gain insights into what the future Ohio site holds by viewing this video from Intel’s Oregon facility, which showcases the advanced technologies and operational scale planned for Ohio. 6/6/2024

As Ohio manufacturers face ongoing workforce challenges, hiring justice-impacted individuals presents a proven, viable solution for helping to fill these gaps. This article highlights how industry, education, and community-based organizations (CBOs) can work together to help manufacturers more successfully integrate this demographic into their workforce. To further explore this opportunity, the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association will host a webinar on June 20th featuring subject-matter experts from Envoy and Ohio Penal Industries (OPI). 6/6/2024

A recent U.S. Chamber of Commerce report highlights the severe labor shortages affecting several critical industries across the US. Manufacturing, among the hardest hit, faces significant challenges in meeting production demands due to the shortfall in skilled labor. This report shows that the issue is compounded by aging workforce demographics and the rapid evolution of technological requirements. For a detailed analysis of how this labor shortage impacts Ohio and other states, and to identify potential strategies for addressing these challenges, access the state-by-state breakdown. 5/30/2024

The CHIPS and Science Act is set to catalyze further advancements in U.S. manufacturing, with a significant push towards increasing domestic production capacities and job creation. According to a recent Area Development article, the act’s implementation is not only about boosting production but also about enhancing workforce skills and supply chain security. Be sure to opt into the OMA’s Workforce Community and check out upcoming learning events such as webinars and training sessions. 5/22/2024

On Tuesday, the OMA was invited to attend the graduation of Voyant employees from an English as a Second Language (ESL) course, an initiative supported by the Department of Development’s MEP at Columbus State and the Columbus Literacy Council. This program exemplifies efforts to reduce language barriers, enhancing both the application process and career advancement opportunities. 10 employees gained promotions post-graduation. Voyant’s workforce is comprised of over 70% untapped talent populations. Manufacturers interested in enhancing their workforce initiatives through programs like these are encouraged to connect with their local ISP and/or MEP. 5/22/2024

Developed with over 2,000 hours of input from industry leaders, the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model is designed to directly align educational outcomes with the needs of the industry and enhance job readiness by ensuring the manufacturing workforce is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to handle current and emerging technologies. Visit the endorsement form to add your support and learn more about the benefits of endorsement. 5/22/2024

Ohio is committed to supporting justice-impacted individuals reentering society and needing a career pathway. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) offers free employment services for these individuals through OhioMeansJobs Centers. These resources include job training, skill improvement, and assistance with job searches. Employers hiring individuals with criminal histories can benefit from federal tax credits through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) Program and request a fidelity bond at no cost to reduce financial risks. For more information, visit the Job Services for Restored Citizens or sign up for an OMA Training Series on Justice-Impacted Individuals. 5/15/2024

This week, the OMA hosted an Industry Sector Partnership (ISP) convening, showcasing the extensive collaboration across the state. The OMA-Endorsed ISP network is essential to the state’s efforts to align education, training, policy, and competencies to meet the needs of Ohio’s manufacturing sector. Key initiatives discussed included public policy advocacy efforts, ISP capacity-building strategies, and enhancing training, placement, and career coaching through programs like WorkAdvance and the Ohio MFG Competency Model. These efforts highlight stepping stones for jobseekers to enter the industry more quickly and know their career pathway options for advancement. To stay informed, be sure to opt-in to the OMA Workforce Community. 5/15/2024

This week, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) announced its selection of Jeremy Varner as deputy director leading the Division of Career-Technical Education and Workforce. The OMA issued a statement of support, citing Varner’s extensive experience in education policy and career-tech education. 5/16/2024

TechCred helps Ohioans learn new skills while also helping employers build a stronger workforce. The latest results from the 25th round of Ohio’s TechCred program in March have been released, with 463 employers upskilling employees through 5,723 tech-focused credentials, including a record number of AI credentials. TechCred offers employers who submit successful applications reimbursement of up to $2,000 per credential and $30,000 per funding round. Ohio employers can apply for the current 26th round until May 31, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. For details on how to apply or to learn more about the credentials and training opportunities, visit techcred.ohio.gov. 5/7/2024

Recent data from the 2023 Manufacturing Turnover Survey, conducted by CMOR and GOWB, reveals insights into the manufacturing industry’s landscape, emphasizing workplace culture’s role in talent attraction and retention. Key findings include:

• 68.4% view manufacturing as vital for economic strength and job creation;
• 89.8% are deterred from recommending manufacturing careers due to concerns about job stability and compensation;
• Barriers like criminal backgrounds and skill gaps present opportunities for creating more inclusive workplaces; and
• Workers prioritize rewarding work, flexible hours, and clear career advancement.

The OMA’s Untapped Talent Training Series provides manufacturers with practical strategies for recruitment, retention, and advancement. Initiatives like this and WorkAdvance are crucial for empowering the manufacturing workforce and enhancing the industry’s public image, showcasing innovation, diversity, and technological advancement. 5/6/2024