WDBCO’s Central Ohio Pre-Apprenticeship Hub is reaching out to schools and private industry to identify and engage candidates for in-demand careers. Working closely with the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO) and Apprentice Ohio, Jessica Weithman, Pre-apprenticeship coordinator at WDBCO has hosted several forums introducing schools and businesses to available funding, the pre-apprenticeship process, and the benefits of training in this way to hundreds of interested parties.

Jessica says, “We have seen an explosion of interest in pre-apprenticeship opportunities from both educators and businesses. These pathways into rewarding and well-paying career fields have been overlooked for far too long at a time when the need for these skilled workers is in high demand.”

263 individuals have been enrolled in pre-apprenticeship programs in the past 12 months. Interest and participation continue to grow across industry sectors including new opportunities in Information Technology, Construction, and Manufacturing.

“The partnership with the WDBCO Pre-apprenticeship hub has been invaluable. It has allowed us to provide informational sessions, funding opportunities, and strengthen the connection between business/industry and our K12 partners.” Said Christine Gavin, Director of College, and Career Success at ESCCO. “Education is about preparing students for life after high school, and that includes giving them exposure to career opportunities. The earlier they can learn about different fields, necessary qualifications, and opportunities for advancement, the more likely they are to succeed earlier in life