NEO Opportunities in Tech

Building a Stronger Talent Pipeline in Northeast Ohio
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Up to $2,500 Per Employee for Digital Skills Training

Ohio TechNet has limited funding available to help employers support digital skills training, certifications, and career advancement for current workers and new hires. Eligible employers may apply for up to $2,500 per participant to support approved training expenses.

Eligible industries include Manufacturing, Healthcare, Digital Skills, and Information Technology. Funding application is open through December 31, 2026, while funds remain available.

Who Can Apply

Employers may apply on behalf of:

  • Current or incumbent workers
  • New hires

 

What Funds Can Support

Funding may be used for:

  • TechCred-approved training
  • Credentials and certifications
  • Workforce training for employment or wage advancement
  • Exam, renewal, and certification fees
  • Required training materials

Apply for Funding

Apply Now

Download the Flyer

Download the Funding Overview Flyer

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Non-employer individuals seeking to enhance your own digital skills independently are encouraged to connect directly with your employer about them participating in this opportunity, or by connecting with your local community college, as they have access to a range of affordable training and educational programs tailored to individual learners. View a list of community colleges in Ohio. 

What is the “Northeast Ohio Opportunities in Tech” Project?

The NEO Opportunities in Tech project supports capacity building at four regional community colleges to meet the Information Technology workforce needs of area employers.  Facilitated by the Ohio Technical Skills Innovation Network, known as Ohio TechNet, partners work closely with Team Northeast Ohio and the Greater Cleveland Partnership to engage industry leaders and ensure our work is targeted to the most in-demand occupations.  The lead grantee is Lorain County Community College, working with partners Cuyahoga Community College, Stark State College and Lakeland Community College.  Over twenty-five subject matter experts from regional employers have already provided key insights and guidance to this work.

This project is funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration and is in partnership with the Ohio TechNet, a statewide consortium of over 40 community colleges, universities and technical centers focused on accelerating innovation to meet manufacturing and tech workforce needs.

Project Purpose

The NEO Opportunities in Tech project addresses identified workforce gaps in specific in-demand Information Technology (IT) occupations.

The Opportunities in Tech Consortium is implementing the Business & Industry Leadership Team (BILT) Model to strategically engage IT employers across the region, aligning our curriculum with market needs to ensure graduates are workforce ready. These regional employers identified key competencies for the IT workforce, focusing on four occupations:

  • Information and Cyber Security
  • Data Analytics
  • Network Systems and Maintenance; and
  • Application / Software Development

Regional BILT Partners

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How This Work Will Be Completed

Employer Engagement Model

Business & Industry Leadership Team (BILT) Model Expansion and curriculum redesign with integration of work-based learning.

Program Design & Implementation

Curriculum course redesign to include credentials and work-based learning, and comprehensive student services to include coaching and advising.

Talent Regional Engagement Strategy

Partner with industry leaders and community-based organizations to recruit participants into IT pathways, through innovations that serve adult learners and expand dual enrollment opportunities for high school students.

How the Project Supports the Student Experience

The NEO Opportunities in Tech project is committed to enhancing the student experience through a comprehensive set of initiatives including:

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  1. Exploring IT Careers: The project provides opportunities for students to delve into various IT pathways, allowing them to explore potential career options.
  2. Student Support Services: By offering student-centric services, the project ensures that learners receive the necessary guidance and assistance throughout their educational journey.
  3. Credential Attainment: Encouraging students to pursue relevant credentials, the project empowers them with valuable qualifications that enhance their employ-ability.
  4. Targeted Coaching and Advising: Students receive tailored guidance, helping them make informed decisions about their academic and professional paths.
  5. Professional Development and Networking: The project facilitates networking opportunities and fosters professional growth, connecting students with industry experts and peers.
  6. Work-Based Learning Integration: The project bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers in the IT field.

Non-employer individuals seeking to enhance your own digital skills independently are encouraged to connect directly with your employer about them participating in this opportunity, or by connecting with your local community college, as they have access to a range of affordable training and educational programs tailored to individual learners.

Career Pathway Resources

Computing & Network Operations

Cyber
Security

Software Design and Engineering

Project Contact Info

Joseph Martin
jmartin2@lorainccc.edu

Stark State

Michael Englert
menglert@starkstate.edu

Cuyahoga Community College

Opportunities in Tech at Tri-C
opportunitiesintech@tri-c.edu

Lakeland Community College

Beth Cueni
bcueni1@lakelandcc.edu