OhioMeansJobs, MCTA Aid Employers, Workers

By Susie Wickline
Chief Operating Officer

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – OhioMeansJobs Mahoning and Columbiana Counties and the Mahoning and Columbiana Training Association administered four grants in 2023, all designed to help employers fill positions and individuals to re-skill and re-train for in-demand jobs.

One of the grants was received with specific goals to assist those who have been involved in some way with the legal system regardless of their ages.

In 2023, approximately 1,000 new customers visited the OMJ centers, both in-person and virtually, to access employment services through MCTA. These include workshops, job search and training funds.

Last year, 289 individuals were enrolled in classroom training programs through MCTA. Of those, 241 were in short-term training (less than 12 months) such as LPN, truck driving, welding and HVAC. Another 48 individuals were in long-term training that can include the last two years of a bachelor’s degree. A requirement for training assistance is that it be in an in-demand field with a reasonable expectation of a job when training is completed.

Last year, OhioMeansJobs service representatives assisted 168 local employers post 290 job orders. They also helped employers take advantage of the On-the-Job Training program. In 2023, 57 newly hired employees participated in OJT, which resulted in $400,000 in payments to their employers to offset wages during the training periods.

MCTA also provides services to people ages 14 to 24 who lack a high school diploma, are parenting, are in or were in foster care, lack job skills, or have other challenges.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.