Lorain County JVS

On January 28, Lorain County JVS marked a significant milestone with the inaugural Business Partnership Collaborative Onboarding Event, welcoming companies such as: Elyria Foundry, Total Line Refrigeration, Smart Local 33 Sheet Metal Workers, and Rudolph Libbe Group. This dynamic gathering brought together local businesses, industry leaders, and education experts to celebrate the transformative power of career-technical education and to reinforce the deep ties between LCJVS and the local workforce. The event was a testament to how strategic partnerships can drive workforce development, address talent shortages, and fuel economic growth across Northeast Ohio.

A Day of Connection and Commitment

The onboarding event was a vibrant mix of networking sessions, interactive discussions, and strategic planning sessions—all aimed at strengthening the connection between LCJVS and the business community. Representatives from key industry players (manufacturing, construction, behavioral health, and HVAC) including D&S Automotive, highlighted their commitment to hiring LCJVS graduates and investing in the next generation of skilled professionals. This collaborative spirit is vital in creating a pipeline of talent that meets the ever-evolving demands of local industries.

The Impact of Career-Technical Education

One of the event’s central themes was the role of career-technical education as a stepping stone into the industry. As one industry leader put it: 

“Career-technical education gives students a stepping stone into the industry. They’ll learn the fundamentals here, but once they get into the field, that’s when real-world learning happens. The key is to take it seriously—this is hard work, but there’s real opportunity for those who commit,” Ray Tumbry, Collision Center Manager.

This commitment to excellence is evident in the outcomes of LCJVS’s programs. Work-based learning and pre-apprenticeship initiatives are not just buzzwords—they’re proven pathways that have increased student employability by up to 90%. With over 20,000 pre-apprenticeships initiated statewide, these programs are crucial in ensuring that students graduate with both the technical skills and the real-world experience that employers value.

Ray stressed the urgency of nurturing young talent:

“This industry is going to be in trouble in five years if we don’t get young talent into the pipeline. The students coming out of LCJVS have a fantastic opportunity—if they stay patient and put in the work, they can build a great career. My nephew, an LCJVS graduate, is making six figures just nine years out of school.” 

And from the perspective of a leading employer:

“At D&S Automotive, we love hiring LCJVS graduates because they come in with foundational skills and a strong work ethic. We invest in our team, promote from within, and create a culture where people want to stay and grow. That’s what makes partnerships with schools like LCJVS so important.”

These powerful statements underscore the belief that career-technical education is more than a pathway to employment—it’s a launchpad for lifelong success.

Ray Tumbry: A Legacy of Excellence

A highlight of the event was the inspiring story of Ray Tumbry, an LCJVS Auto Body Program alumnus from the Class of 1987. Ray’s career journey vividly illustrates the long-term impact of LCJVS’s educational programs on local industries: 

Career Path:

• Ray began his journey at Smitty’s Car Craft and later honed his skills at Abracadabra Auto Body (which evolved into North Coast Collision). In 2005, he returned to Smitty’s Car Craft, and by 2024, his dedication helped transform the business into D&S Automotive.

Family Legacy:
Ray’s story is intertwined with his family’s continued commitment to LCJVS:

• Oldest nephew: LCJVS Auto Body graduate (Class of 2016)
• Middle nephew: LCJVS Masonry graduate (Class of 2022)
• Youngest nephew: LCJVS Electrical graduate (Class of 2023)
• Cousin: LCJVS Auto Body graduate (Class of 1989-1990)

Employer Connection:
Today, most of D&S Automotive’s team comprises LCJVS alumni, including two painters from Ray’s own graduating class. This deep-rooted connection highlights how career-technical education creates enduring relationships and long-term benefits for both individuals and local businesses.

A fun side note that warmed the hearts of many at the event: Ray’s 1987 instructor, Gary Garruthers, now resides in Florida but still makes it a point to “check-in” on his former students at the shop when he’s in Ohio. This enduring mentorship exemplifies the lifelong bonds formed through LCJVS.

Another poignant reminder from the industry was:

“The work we do is about more than just fixing cars—it’s about safety and trust. That’s why students who go through LCJVS and enter this field need to be serious about their craft. If they commit, they’ll find not just a job, but a lifelong career.”

Looking Ahead: Building a Stronger Future Together

The success of the January 28 onboarding event is a powerful indicator of what can be achieved when education and industry collaborate. Lorain County JVS remains committed to integrating business insights into our programs, ensuring that every graduate is equipped with the skills, work ethic, and real-world experience needed to excel in today’s competitive market.

As we look ahead, our Business Partnership Collaborative will continue to forge deep connections with local businesses, nurturing a pipeline of talent that supports both individual career success and robust economic growth for Northeast Ohio.

To register for the next LCJVS Business Partnership Collaborative in March, click here to secure your seat.

Stay Connected:

For more updates on our Business Partnership Collaborative and future workforce development initiatives, visit the Lorain County JVS website or contact our Workforce Development Team at mhauck@lcjvs.net. Together, we are shaping the future of Ohio’s workforce—one graduate at a time.