With unemployment at historically low levels, many manufacturers are struggling to find new employees. The challenge is greater for employers looking for new hires with specific credentials or technological skills. To address the problem and support employers trying to build a technologically skilled workforce, the state of Ohio is offering a program called "TechCred." The program offers employers reimbursement for technology-focused credentials that can be earned by employees in a short period of time and therefore provide help more expediently to the employer. The next round of TechCred funding begins March 2 and is available through March 31, 2020.
What are the eligible credentials?
TechCred offers reimbursement to employers for employees obtaining credentials that meet the following criteria:
- Industry-recognized
- Focused on technology
- Awarded by universities, community colleges, Ohio technical centers, or private training providers
- Must be able to be completed in less than one year in programs that are fewer than 900 clock hours or 30 credit hours
Credentials include certificates or certifications in automation, some Microsoft programs, cybersecurity, information technology and a variety of manufacturing software, programming, machine operation, and troubleshooting operations. For a complete list of credentials, visit the Tech Cred website.
If the desired credential is not included in the list, employers can submit additional credentials for approval. Employers must submit proof that the credential meets the industry-recognized, technology-focused, short-term criteria of the TechCred program.
How much reimbursement can you receive?
TechCred awards employers $2,000 per credential, with a limit of one credential per employee in each funding period. An employer can receive a total of $30,000 in reimbursements per funding period.
The reimbursement applies towards tuition, lab fees, manuals, textbooks, and certification costs. To obtain it, employers must submit applicable documentation within six weeks of an employee completing a credential.
How do you apply?
To apply for TechCred, visit https://techcred.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/techcred/apply. You will be prompted to create an OH|ID account if you do not already have one. Once you create an account, you can apply for the program from the same link.
For more information about TechCred, visit TechCred.Ohio.Gov. Or to reach a member of the HBK CPAs & Consultants Manufacturing Solutions Group, call 330-758-8613 or email manufacturing@hbkcpa.com.
