This effort addresses TPMA’s implementation work with the Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition (MVMC) for its U.S. Department of Labor American Apprenticeship Initiative grant. The overall goal of MVMC’s grant is to increase the number of apprentices in a 14-county footprint that includes Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. TPMA client West Central Job Partnership is the fiscal agent for the grant.
This summer, 10 machining and welding students from Mahoning County Career and Technical Center (MCCTC) and Columbiana County Career and Technical Center (CCCTC) participated in MVMC’s first High School Pre-Apprenticeship Program.
MVMC worked with the schools to structure a program that would provide a seamless pathway for students interested in connecting with local manufacturers that offer apprenticeship programs. This effort addresses MVMC’s USDOL America Apprenticeship Initiative to increase the number of apprentices in the United States.
MCCTC and CCCTC screened their Juniors based on criteria—such as classroom attendance, grades, and teacher recommendations. Then, MVMC assisted by making matches between the companies and the students, based on location. Companies interviewed the students and agreed to host them for the summer.
Students worked for 8-10 weeks during the summer. In addition to gaining a meaningful work experience and a paycheck, students also will receive additional credits toward graduation and a formal Pre-apprenticeship Certificate from the State of Ohio.