TAACCCT Outcomes

From Federal Grant to Statewide Impact

Shaping Future Policy

OTN launched in 2014 from a $15 million Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) grant program from the United States Department of Labor. The purpose of the four-year project was to expand training programs for transitioning adults (and especially veterans), the under-employed and those impacted by foreign trade.

Successes Include:

  • Expanded access to job-driven training for advanced manufacturing
  • Transformed the way which higher education works with employers and industry-led partnerships
  • Supported the launch of the Ohio manufacturing workforce roadmap, led by The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, now known as the Workforce Blueprint.
  • Increased percentage of workers in transition who have greater awareness and exposure to careers available in manufacturing
  • Strengthened the pipeline of qualified workers entering into manufacturing careers
  • Provided a demand-driven structure to guide manufacturing workforce priorities

Workforce Training Approach

Lorain County Community College, the facilitator of Ohio TechNet, continues to work with The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, regional sector partnerships, education providers, and manufacturers to support Ohio’s manufacturing workforce needs.

The Ohio Manufacturing Workforce Partnership grant has concluded, but its employer-driven approach continues to inform workforce training across high-demand manufacturing pathways, including:

  • Production
  • Machining
  • Welding
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Automation and robotics

 

This approach builds on the strongest elements of apprenticeship and work-based learning models while giving manufacturers flexibility to focus on the skills and outcomes most important to their operations. Employers can align training with business needs while supporting:

  • Paid, work-based learning delivered by the employer
  • Structured, on-the-job training and mentorship
  • Technical instruction connected to manufacturing career pathways
  • Completion of nationally portable, industry-recognized credentials
  • Standards for safety, supervision, and equal opportunity

 

For current workforce resources and support, please visit OMA workforce services.