COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Mahoning Valley Manufacturer’s Coalition and Mahoning County Career & Technical Center are among the 16 training providers in the state that will receive a total of $7.1 million to provide training for technology-focused credentials at no cost through the Individual Microcredential Assistance Program.

The selected training providers, which include four-year universities, two-year colleges, career centers and private providers, will be reimbursed up to $3,000 each time an Ohioan completes a training and earns a technology-focused credential through one of the approved programs. Up to 3,551 credentials can be earned through this round of funding.

“Career credentials show that someone has the skills and know-how to get the job done right, giving businesses confidence in hiring them,” said Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, who serves as director of the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation. “For the person earning them, credentials open doors to better opportunities, providing for higher pay and more job security.”

IMAP was created to allow Ohioans to participate in a training program and receive a tech-focused credential at no cost. The IMAP webpage was recently updated with a new and improved search function for credentials and training providers available. Training through IMAP is offered both in person and online.

“The funding through the Individual Microcredential Assistance Program helps build a talent pipeline, enabling companies to recruit locally and hire in-demand workers more efficiently while also equipping the next generation of Ohioans,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development.

The 14 other training providers are Bowling Green State University, Gallia-Jackson-Vinton JVSD, Global Lynx Inc., Goodwill Industries of Central Ohio Inc., Manufacturing Advocacy & Growth Network Inc. (Magnet), MAX Technical Training Inc., Northwest State Community College, Southern State Community College, Tech Elevator Inc., The Kable Group LLC, The Trades Institute, Walsh University, Washington County Career Center and We Can Code IT LLC.

For those interested in earning a credential or learning more about the program, click HERE.

Pictured at top: Image via Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation.