Battelle recently announced the launch of a pilot program to develop and expand innovative manufacturing career pathways in public schools across Ohio.

Devised by the Ohio STEM Learning Network with support from the Walton Family Foundation, Manufacturing Pathways has awarded grants totaling $1.76 million to support industry-aligned educational programs that prepare students in 21 Ohio districts, including Columbus City Schools, for careers in the state’s manufacturing sector, a news release provided.

The grants support the creation or expansion of manufacturing or engineering and science technologies pathway programs for high school students, the release continued.

Each program features cross-sector partnerships between K-12 schools, higher education institutions and industry partners to ensure alignment with workforce needs.

Program officials estimated that recent investments from companies such as Honda and LG Energy Solution, Ford, SEMCORP and Intel are expected to reshape the state’s economy in the immediate future, resulting in a talent gap of about 30,000 technicians each year if not addressed.

“Education and career preparation go hand-in-hand, so we are always excited to support our regional partners in providing career pathways for students that will ultimately help elevate our communities and region while meeting the growing employment demands across our state,” said Jonathan Tedesco, dean of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at Lake Erie College.

The college has partnered with a Geauga County school district to prepare students for careers in manufacturing, agriculture and environmental systems.

Staff from the funded programs are expected to collaborate through a community of practice designed to provide space to share implementation strategies and solve challenges, the release provided.

Participating schools will receive technical assistance to support efforts in marketing, partner engagement and student recruitment.

Battelle is expected to track performance metrics including enrollment, credential attainment and student persistence in manufacturing pathways to inform the creation of future pathway programs.