TechCred Sets Another Record for August

COLUMBUS, Ohio — With the latest round of funding approved for the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation’s TechCred program, 4,468 Ohioans will earn technology-focused credentials – a new record.

The August round of TechCred saw 288 Ohio employers approved for funding to help their existing and incoming workforce earn skills for the increasingly tech-infused economy, according to a release. The number of employees earning credentials in August increased by 1,227 over June, pushing cumulative credentials earned to more than 10,000.

“Before being elected, Governor DeWine and I promised to create a program to help Ohioans renew their skills and put them on track to a better career,” said Lt. Gov. Jon Husted. “Today, I am excited that we reached our goal of funding over 10,000 upskilling opportunities. When these students complete their certificates, more than 10,000 Ohioans with better skills, earning power, and job security.”

As of Oct. 1, a total of 983 Ohio employers have been approved for funding, supporting the earning of 11,941 tech-focused credentials by employees.

“TechCred is helping Ohio businesses upskill their workforce,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Development Services Agency. “Credentials earned through this program help employees and businesses prepare for a brighter future.”

Hynes Industries, Youngstown, announced last month that it secured TechCred funding to support training for its employees. The company produces precision-engineered custom roll form shapes and other metal fabrications, according to a press release.

The company plans to use the funding to train associates to advance their knowledge of roll tooling design and operation while increasing communications with the company’s engineering team.

Hynes partnered with credential provider, Roll Form Solutions Inc., to apply for the program

“We are pleased to receive this award and use it to invest in our workforce,” said Hynes CEO Rick Organ. “We’re passionate about our business, our community and our associates. We look to strengthen each of them through this program.”

The sixth TechCred application period opened today and closes Oct. 30.

“The strength of Ohio’s economy hinges on a skilled workforce, and the continued growth of TechCred reinforces that idea,” said Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner. “It is great to see so many Ohio employers and their workers taking advantage of this program, which will help ensure their success now and in the future.”

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.