Well known for the traditionally strong work ethics of its workforce, western Ohio has experienced many of the same challenges as the rest of the country when it comes to building a workforce with the necessary skills to support today's business requirements.
We have all witnessed the dramatic impact of technology applications that have changed the landscape of American industry. Over the last twenty years the work skills required to be a productive part of an advanced manufacturing environment have experienced massive change. Ever increasing productivity demands have forced management to invest in technically advanced machinery and equipment to compete effectively in today's global marketplace. And while those investments have created the capacity to increase production, they have also created a significantly expanded demand for workers with the skills to operate the advanced equipment.
It is this environment that has led the Troy Development Council, in partnership with several regional development organizations, to obtain a $2 million grant to be used in developing an advanced manufacturing training program. The goal of the program is to train and certify workers in industry recognized certifications and provide appropriately skilled workers for area industry well into the future.
Known as SkillTrac, this program is delivered through a comprehensive regional training network consisting of Wright State University, Edison Community College, Sinclair Community College and Upper Valley Joint Vocational School. Companies in Troy and throughout the western Ohio region have begun to take advantage of this unique training opportunity.
Most importantly, this training concept has allowed our region to retain and grow several of our key businesses. Now, as we reach out to potentially new business ventures, worker training capacity will be one of our key strengths when compared to other sites around the country.