MVMC Awarded Training Funds for Technology-Focused Credential Seekers

While many industries are struggling to recruit or retain employees, manufacturers’ challenges have been somewhat unique. The gradual retirement of baby boomers is depleting the manufacturing workforce with fewer younger generation workers pursuing trades, including manufacturing labor positions. Over recent years, the challenge has been compounded by workers’ desires for different types of work/life balance, such as flexible work arrangements or remote environments, as well as by other industries offering increasingly competitive pay. Manufacturers have been tasked with finding unique ways to recruit and retain employees, placing a significant focus on offering competitive compensation packages, creating desirable working environments, and providing educational and upskilling opportunities to laborers.

The upskilling need has never been more prevalent. Manufacturers are more rapidly adopting Industry 4.0 technologies that require new skills. Data analytics, computer programming, and maintenance of technology-driven equipment are three skill sets that many manufacturers are adding to their teams.

Earlier this year, Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition (MVMC) announced that the organization, as well as fourteen other training providers in Ohio, were awarded $6.2 million in funds to support Ohioans looking to upskill. MVMC will use these funds for their WorkAdvance program in Youngstown and Warren, Ohio. To learn more about this program, HBK Manufacturing Solutions spoke with Alex Hertzer, Interim Executive Director of MVMC, who shared the following information:

1. What is the WorkAdvance program?
   
   Our local WorkAdvance program is available to workers in Mahoning and Trumbull counties who are interested in a manufacturing career, are motivated to learn new skills, have a high school diploma or GED, and can pass a drug screen. The program offers a paid 3-week training program focused on job readiness, math, manufacturing, and other skills that help workers prepare for a career in manufacturing.
   
   
2. Are there any benefits that WorkAdvance participants receive after they complete the program?
   
   Yes, the WorkAdvance program partners with several manufacturers who typically recruit from the pool of WorkAdvance participants. Manufacturing employer partners are listed on each county’s application website, available here.
   
   Second, WorkAdvance program participants have the opportunity to work with a career coach for twelve months after they complete the program. These coaches are a vital asset to potential job seekers in the manufacturing industry.
   
   
3. Are similar programs available for workers outside of Mahoning and Trumbull County?
   
   Yes, funds for the Individual Microcredential Assistance Program (IMAP) are available to Ohioans statewide seeking eligible credentials. There are a variety of training providers that conduct online or in-person training. Credentials must be short-term, industry-recognized, and technology-focused. A list of training providers with their approved credentials is available at https://workforce.ohio.gov/initiatives/initiatives/imap/for-individuals. MVMC’s WorkAdvance program is just one example of an eligible credential that a worker could earn using the funds awarded, which are from the IMAP program
   
   
4. How do manufacturers benefit from this program?
   
   Manufacturers benefit from this program by having a wider pool of trained candidates for open positions. However, manufacturers do not need to sponsor employees for this program, meaning that employees can pursue this credential on their own. Manufacturers interested in partnering with WorkAdvance can contact MVMC for more information.
   

For more information about the funding available, please contact HBK Manufacturing Solutions at 330-758-8613 or manufacturing@hbkcpa.com or Alex Hertzer at alex@mahoningvalleymfg.com.

Contributing Author:

Alex Hertzer was promoted to Interim Executive Director of MVMC in February 2024 after joining the organization in 2021. Alex most recently served as Senior Project Manager and Assistant Director, where he oversaw membership development and WorkAdvance. He also worked as a plant superintendent before joining the organization.