In an effort to introduce youth across the state to the opportunities available in the skilled trades, the Department of Commerce will host a virtual 30-minute webinar at noon on Thursday, May 8. This session is open to students, families, school administrators, guidance counselors, educators – anyone who plays a role in helping students make informed decisions about their futures. Individuals who are interested in attending the webinar can register by clicking here.
COLUMBUS, OHIO – In recognition of In-Demands Jobs Week, the Ohio Department of Commerce has partnered with the Ohio Department of Youth Services (DYS) to highlight how careers in the skilled trades can offer incarcerated youth opportunities to achieve professional and personal success following their release.
Earlier today, Department of Commerce Director Sherry Maxfield, Board of Building Standards Professional Development Director Meg Foley, and Ohio Contractor Administrator with the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board Michael Baisden visited the Circleville Juvenile Correctional Facility. During their visit, they led two separate presentations involving approximately 50 youth who are approaching their date of release.
The event marked the second year of a collaborative effort between Commerce and DYS to extend opportunity and guidance to youth within the juvenile justice system, underscoring a shared commitment to building brighter futures while preparing the workforce of tomorrow to fuel the state’s continued growth.
Director Maxfield says it’s vital that steps are taken to introduce more youth to these high-demand careers.
“Skilled trades represent the backbone of Ohio’s workforce,” said Maxfield. “The opportunities which they provide are life-changing, especially for these young individuals who still have their entire lives ahead of them. By engaging with these youth, we hope to help them understand that second chances do exist, and this unique opportunity can prepare them for rewarding futures. It will also enable Ohio to remain competitive in this rapidly evolving economy.”
“This is about creating second chances and giving young people the tools to build successful lives,” said DYS Director Amy Ast. “Our staff do a tremendous job in hosting career resource fairs for youth and getting them trained in skills at our OhioMeansJobs centers in the facilities. We are thrilled to partner with the Department of Commerce to connect our youth with even more helpful knowledge and information that could open doors to fulfilling careers.”
The discussions provided a high-level overview of the skilled trades in Ohio. In particular, they highlighted the increasing need for workers in the skilled trades; provided instructions on how youth can explore and search for opportunities; emphasized various benefits that jobs in the skilled trades provide; and identified pathways individuals can take to prepare for work in these critical fields.
This visit comes as the need for Ohio workers in the skilled trades is growing greater by the day. The combination of an aging workforce and significant economic growth throughout the state has resulted in a widening workforce gap. As a result of this shortage, workers in construction trades such as carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, electric, welding and pipefitting are highly sought after and can earn competitive salaries, even at the starting apprenticeship level. In addition, having a criminal background does not disqualify someone from pursuing a career in the skilled trades.
According to the 2020-2030 Ohio Job Outlook published by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, an estimated 21,656 job openings in the skilled trades need to be filled annually through 2030. These positions offer competitive wages, strong benefits, and significant opportunities for career advancement, making them a key driver of Ohio’s workforce.
