YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Chris Thomas, owner and CEO of Tri County Tower, and Jeff Magada, founder and executive director of Flying High Inc., highlighted a growing partnership aimed at addressing workforce shortages while creating new career pathways in the Mahoning Valley.
Thomas said Tri County Tower faces ongoing challenges in recruiting skilled workers, particularly for highly specialized tower technician roles that require both physical ability and technical expertise.
He noted that demand for talent extends beyond telecommunications, with the company also seeking workers with construction, electrical and mechanical skills, emphasizing the need to attract and retain local talent in a competitive labor market.
Magada said Flying High plays a key role in preparing individuals for those opportunities by offering training programs across industries, including manufacturing, health care and construction, all designed to equip participants with job-ready skills without incurring student debt.
He added that the organization works closely with employers to ensure candidates meet hiring requirements, providing customized training, certifications and support services to help individuals overcome barriers and succeed in the workforce.
Both said the partnership continues to grow, with recruitment events, training programs and direct employer engagement helping connect job seekers with in-demand careers while strengthening the region’s workforce pipeline.