Lorain County JVS

Lorain County Joint Vocational School (JVS) is taking bold strides to shape the future of workforce development in Ohio. As a finalist in the prestigious Career Z Challenge: Expanding Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Gen Z, Lorain County JVS is leading efforts to expand high-quality work-based learning (WBL) and pre-apprenticeship programs.

The U.S. Department of Education, in collaboration with the Departments of Labor and Commerce, sponsors the Career Z Challenge as part of the Raise the Bar: Unlocking Career Success Initiative. This competition is aimed at identifying and supporting innovative solutions that expand equitable access to meaningful WBL experiences across the nation.

Jenny Lambert, Education Program Specialist with U.S. Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education added: “the Career Z Challenge call to action encompasses two key elements: (1) engage collaborative ecosystems of educators, employers, industries, and community stakeholders; and (2) engage students across grades 9-12 in meaningful career exploration, development, and preparation by providing WBL opportunities that are: Real-world; relevant; inclusive and accessible; interconnected and expansive; scalable; measurable; and sustainable. Lorain County Joint Vocational School (JVS) not only successfully completed Phase 2 of the challenge but was selected as a finalist to receive intensified technical assistance, including one-on-one coaching, online collaboration space, resources, as well as participation in in-person and virtual events. JVS has been an engaged and collaborative Career Z Challenge finalist.”
 
Lorain County JVS recently showcased its groundbreaking proposal at the 2024 ACTE Vision Conference in San Antonio, Texas. This annual event brings together career and technical education (CTE) leaders to share strategies for preparing students for the future workforce.

Ohio’s Economic Growth Fuels Workforce Development Needs

Ohio’s economy is one of the fastest-growing in the nation, with a GDP exceeding $840 billion and robust job creation in advanced manufacturing, technology, and logistics. The state ranks as the third-largest manufacturing hub in the U.S., with over 700,000 workers employed in the sector. 

However, with unemployment at historically low levels and the labor market tightening, businesses are facing challenges in finding talent ready to fill critical roles. The need for work-based learning opportunities, such as pre-apprenticeships, is greater than ever. Pre-apprenticeship programs provide students with the practical skills and certifications required to transition seamlessly into high-demand careers, strengthening both workforce mobility and economic resilience. 

Lorain County JVS is answering this call with a bold initiative to create a more inclusive, scalable, and sustainable WBL ecosystem that prepares students to thrive in Ohio’s growing economy. 

A Transformative Vision for Work-Based Learning

At the core of Lorain County JVS’s Career Z Challenge proposal is the expansion of pre-apprenticeship opportunities to ensure equitable access for all students. By integrating classroom instruction with hands-on experience and fostering strong employer partnerships, Lorain County JVS is redefining how education aligns with industry needs.

Michelle McClintic, Program Supervisor at Lorain County JVS, emphasized the importance of creating accessible pathways:
"Pre-apprenticeships are critical for breaking down barriers and preparing students for the careers of tomorrow. We’re focused on delivering opportunities that are real-world, inclusive, and impactful."

Innovating at the ACTE Vision Conference

During the 2024 ACTE Vision Conference, Lorain County JVS shared its forward-thinking strategies with CTE leaders from across the country. The event served as a platform to highlight the school’s commitment to workforce development and to gain insights into best practices for expanding WBL ecosystems.

Jennifer Stein, Vice President of Workforce Development with Kaptivate, the intermediary organization supporting the Career Z Challenge, praised Lorain County JVS’s efforts:
Lorain County JVS is reimagining how schools and industries can collaborate to prepare students for in-demand careers. It's been inspiring to work with them as they've brought their innovative ideas to life, and to see them now sharing their lessons learned with others around the country.

Pre-Apprenticeships: Bridging the Talent Gap

Pre-apprenticeship programs, like those championed by Lorain County JVS, play a vital role in addressing Ohio’s workforce challenges. These programs offer: 

• Real-World Experience: Connecting students with industry mentors and hands-on training.
• Industry Certifications: Equipping students with recognized credentials to meet employer needs.
• Career Readiness: Providing a clear pathway from high school to apprenticeships and full-time employment.

Lorain County JVS’s partnerships with Greater Cleveland Partnership and Manufacturing Works ensure that students gain access to meaningful opportunities while businesses benefit from a well-prepared talent pipeline.

Competing for $150,000 to Drive Impact

As one of 10 finalists in the Career Z Challenge, Lorain County JVS is competing for a $150,000 prize to accelerate the implementation of its WBL initiatives. The school will participate in an accelerator program during Phase 3 of the competition, receiving tailored technical assistance to refine and expand its pre-apprenticeship model. 

This funding will enable Lorain County JVS to scale its efforts, increase student participation, and create long-term, measurable impacts for Ohio’s workforce. 

"Being named a finalist in the Career Z Challenge is an incredible opportunity for the Lorain County JVS to advance our work-based learning ecosystem, expand student access to work-based learning opportunities, and to make a lasting impact on workforce development in our region "McClintic added.

A Brighter Future for Ohio’s Workforce

Lorain County JVS is proving that bold ideas can lead to transformative outcomes. By expanding access to pre-apprenticeships and fostering collaboration between education and industry, the school is creating opportunities that benefit students, employers, and the broader economy.

As Ohio continues to grow, initiatives like Lorain County JVS’s are essential for ensuring the state’s workforce remains competitive and inclusive.

For updates on Lorain County JVS’s journey in the Career Z Challenge and its work-based learning programs, follow us on LinkedIn or visit our website. Together, we’re shaping the workforce of tomorrow, today.