Ohio manufacturers are struggling to find employees for both skilled and entry-level positions. Over $2 million manufacturing jobs are projected to go unfilled through 2030 according to the May 2021 study published by Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute. It will be mathematically impossible for us to compete in the future without revisiting our definition of the “ideal” employee and actively supporting a more diverse workforce.  

This breakout asks attendees to challenge their assumptions behind their definition of an “ideal candidate” and reveals ways manufacturers can tap into often overlooked talent pools to locate new employees to contribute to positive change, advanced thinking, teamwork, and innovation. The session will also address things that may need attention in your organization to make it attractive to these groups. Join us in this session to learn about these capable groups of individuals located in the tristate region. 

Objectives and Takeaways: 

• Learn about under-considered talent pools in our region  
• Understand how your organization can proactivity launch recruitment efforts and engage with these untapped talent pipelines
• Benefit from one of Cincinnati’s most innovative manufacturers – Ohio Drone LLC – discussion of how they implemented a highly-successful Veteran hiring initiative and other groundbreaking hiring strategies
• Receive a county-by-county resource contact sheet with information and data regarding potential talent pools of under-considered candidates 

Ohio offers rich programs and funding as well as technology-focused credential options to assist manufacturers in the growth and transformation of their workforce. Abria Drummonds will lead the presentation by discussing grants and funding opportunities. Then, Rachel Johanson will take the stage to share information on TechCred, a program that helps Ohioans learn new skills and helps employers build a stronger workforce with the skills needed in a technology-infused economy. Participants will walk away with immediate steps to take to earn support funding their training and upskilling programs. 

Objectives and Takeaways: 

• Learn where to access grants and funding opportunities  
• Find funding for training – training programs, educational services, and practical support – continued education – professional development 

It’s time to rethink how we recruit talent for manufacturing companies.  The hiring landscape for skilled labor has become even more competitive. This means many manufacturers have refocused their recruitment from finding experienced employees to instead locating and investing in individuals willing and able to learn the required skills of the job. These companies are building related instructional and on-the-job training for their workforce.  

Today’s Apprenticeship programs can be developed with the employers’ talent development needs in mind – including an assessment of the skills and competencies and the duration of training required to set employees up for success. During this breakout session, a panel will provide information on regional Apprenticeship Programs and resources that can support both programs fully managed in-house and those developed by educational institutions.    

 Learning Objectives and Takeaways: 

• Discover the value of Apprenticeships in your talent development planning 
• Learn what to consider when determining if your company needs an Apprenticeship Program 
• Discover options for building your company’s own Apprenticeship Program  
• Learn how to work with an established educational institutions’ Apprenticeship Program to train your current employees or recruit program graduates