Lorain County JVS

Lorain County JVS is leading a bold initiative to unify and accelerate work-based learning across Lorain County, creating a strategic approach that equips students with real-world experiences while addressing critical talent gaps in Ohio's workforce. This program, developed in collaboration with regional educational and business partners, represents a transformative step in preparing students for career success and driving economic growth across Northeast Ohio.

A Collaborative, County-Wide Vision for Workforce Development

The initiative is designed to support the 14 school districts within Lorain County: Amherst, Avon, Avon Lake, Clearview, Columbia, Elyria, Firelands, Keystone, Lorain City Schools, Midview, North Ridgeville, Oberlin, Sheffield/Sheffield Lake, and Wellington. By working with Lorain County Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Lorain County Manufacturing Sector Partnership, Lorain County ESC, Manufacturing Works, and the Greater Cleveland Partnership, Lorain County JVS is creating customized work-based learning opportunities tailored to the needs of students and local employers.

This strategy leverages key resources such as College Credit Plus, articulated credits (C-TAGs), and pre-apprenticeship approval through ApprenticeOhio, ensuring students have seamless pathways to post-secondary education, certifications, and on-the-job training.

Addressing Ohio’s Workforce Challenges

Ohio’s economy continues to grow, with industries like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology expanding rapidly. According to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, the state is projected to add over 200,000 jobs in key sectors by 2030. However, a significant talent shortage persists, with nearly 50% of employers in the state reporting difficulties in finding qualified workers to fill critical roles.

The Lorain County JVS work-based learning initiative directly addresses these challenges by aligning student preparation with employer needs. This unified approach not only benefits students but also ensures a robust talent pipeline to sustain Ohio’s economic momentum.

Voices of Leadership

Dr. Glenn Faircloth, Superintendent of Lorain County JVS, emphasized the program’s transformative impact on education and workforce development:

• "This initiative represents a monumental shift in how we prepare students for their future careers. By uniting our schools, businesses, and community colleges, we’re building a talent pipeline that strengthens our regional economy and equips students with the skills they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market."

Adam Artman, President and Executive Officer at Manufacturing Works, echoed this sentiment:

•  "Manufacturing is at the heart of Northeast Ohio’s economy, and programs like this are critical to ensuring its continued success. Lorain County JVS is setting a new standard for collaboration and innovation in workforce readiness."

Myles Bremke, Regional Senior Vice President and District Governing Board Member at Northwest Bank added:

• "The business community thrives when education and workforce development come together. This initiative empowers our students and our local economy, creating a future where opportunity and innovation intersect."

Cindy Kushner, Director, School, Workforce and Community Partnerships mentioned:

• "Lorain County Community College and Lorain County JVS have a long-standing tradition of working together to create opportunities for high school students to explore and gain career skills. Expanding this partnership to include work-based learning and pre-apprenticeships will deepen this work and play a crucial role in addressing the talent needs of Northeast Ohio."

 Dr. Naima Lusane, Executive Director, College & Career Readiness, and Chief Administrator, Northeast Ohio College Tech Prep Regional Center at Cuyahoga Community College had this to say:

• "Work-Based Learning (WBL) is essential in both CTE and non-CTE settings as it bridges the gap between classroom education and practical, real-world application. It empowers students to explore career pathways, build transferable skills, and gain valuable industry insights. Collaboration across the ecosystem—between educators, businesses, and community organizations—is vital to creating equitable and impactful opportunities. By working together, we can ensure all students are equipped to succeed in the evolving workforce while addressing the critical talent gaps in our economy.

Building a Brighter Future

As Ohio schools are now measured on work-based learning outcomes, Lorain County JVS’s initiative positions the region at the forefront of career-readiness and workforce development. By integrating education with real-world experiences, this program ensures students are equipped with the tools to succeed in their chosen career pathways—whether through post-secondary education, pre-apprenticeships, or direct entry into the workforce.

This initiative exemplifies Lorain County JVS’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in preparing students for the future. Together, with its partners and school districts, Lorain County JVS is not just fueling the workforce of tomorrow but redefining what career readiness looks like today.