Strengthening Ohio’s Workforce with Inclusive Pathways and Industry Collaboration
Driving Ohio’s Pro-Business Growth
With one of the fastest-growing economies in the Midwest, Ohio has become a magnet for investment in advanced manufacturing and technology. The state’s focus on fostering a pro-business climate is creating a fertile ground for partnerships like the one between Lorain County JVS and NIICA.
This collaboration exemplifies the state’s workforce strategy by blending education with economic development. Through innovative programs such as Gateway Apprenticeship Program™, Lorain County JVS is helping to create a skilled workforce pipeline that fuels local industries and expands access to high-paying careers.
Dr. Glenn Faircloth, Superintendent of Lorain County JVS, reinforced the importance of these efforts:
“At Lorain County JVS, we are committed to creating opportunities that transform lives. Partnering with NIICA allows us to align education with the needs of Ohio’s industries, ensuring that every student has the tools and pathways to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.”
NIICA and Gateway Apprenticeship Program™: A Blueprint for Success
The Gateway Apprenticeship Program™, launched by NIICA in partnership with Lorain County JVS, aims to establish high-quality pre-apprenticeships within Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. This innovative approach directly links Ohio high school students to Registered Apprenticeships (RAs), building a bridge between education and employment.
NIICA’s National Talent Hub™ ensures that these pre-apprenticeships are aligned with industry standards, allowing students to earn credit for prior learning and transition seamlessly into paid RAs. By focusing on competency-based learning, the program equips students with the skills to meet Ohio’s growing demand for a diverse, highly skilled workforce.
Mike Russo, President and CEO of NIICA, highlighted the program’s impact:
“The Gateway Apprenticeship Program™ addresses immediate talent needs while laying the foundation for long-term industry resilience. By collaborating with educational institutions like Lorain County JVS, we’re creating inclusive pathways that empower individuals from all backgrounds to succeed in manufacturing.”
Lorain County JVS: Empowering the Future Workforce
The partnership between Lorain County JVS and NIICA is a testament to the power of collaboration. Through pre-apprenticeships with
Manufacturing Works and the
Greater Cleveland Partnership, Lorain County JVS is preparing students with industry-recognized credentials and articulated credits, including partnerships with Case Western Reserve University.
Principal Tina Pelto reflected on the program’s significance:
“Our collaboration with NIICA ensures that we are not just educating students but preparing them for real-world success. The Gateway Apprenticeship Program™ gives our students a competitive edge, connecting their classroom learning to meaningful careers that strengthen Ohio’s economy.”
Advancing Inclusion Through Workforce Development
NIICA’s partnership with Lorain County JVS extends beyond skills training. The event also introduced the Manufacturing Works for Women campaign, a targeted effort to expand opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in manufacturing. Wendy Chun-Hoon, Director of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Women’s Bureau, emphasized how these initiatives address systemic barriers while meeting industry demands.
The event saw commitments from leading Ohio employers, including DuPont, Orlando Baking Company, and Process Technology, to prioritize hiring graduates from CTE programs. These pledges underscore the collective effort to create a diverse and inclusive manufacturing workforce that reflects Ohio’s communities.
NIICA’s Vision: Building a Resilient Talent Pipeline
The National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement (NIICA) is at the forefront of reshaping America’s workforce strategy. Through the Gateway Apprenticeship Program™ and its broader initiatives, NIICA is driving economic competitiveness by aligning educational pathways with industry needs.
“Today’s event highlights the collaborative spirit needed to foster a skilled, inclusive workforce ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s industries,” said Russo. “By leveraging partnerships with schools like Lorain County JVS, we’re ensuring that Ohio remains a leader in manufacturing innovation.”
Ohio’s Vision for Workforce Excellence
Lorain County JVS, in collaboration with NIICA, is setting a national example of how strategic partnerships can transform workforce development. These efforts not only address Ohio’s immediate talent needs but also ensure long-term industry resilience by creating opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds.
For more information on Lorain County JVS and its workforce development initiatives, visit
Lorain County JVS.
Tags: #CareerTechnicalEducation #OhioManufacturing #WorkforceDevelopment #NationalApprenticeshipWeek #NIICA #LorainCountyJVS #GatewayApprenticeshipProgram #InclusiveWorkforce #TalentPipeline