Paulding County Economic Development Press Release May 14, 2026
PAULDING, OH — The Paulding County Business Advisory Council (BAC) Steering Committee convened this week to continue its collaborative work strengthening connections between local schools, higher education partners, employers, and workforce organizations. The committee’s ongoing focus includes expanding career pathways, enhancing educator engagement, and identifying new opportunities to support students while building a strong, future‑ready workforce across Paulding County.
A central topic of discussion was the continued integration of Career Technical Education (CTE) into local workforce pipelines. Members reviewed the success of last summer’s CAN program and explored additional initiatives with strong potential for replication and expansion as the county works to meet long‑term workforce needs.
Council members also examined current workforce readiness efforts and the value of existing training programs. Healthcare partners highlighted the sustained demand for medical training and shared updates on new grant opportunities that could support program growth. Apprenticeship development remains a priority, with Vantage Career Center and regional partners exploring new apprenticeship partnerships. Mike Burkholder, with the regional office of Workforce Development, will assist in aligning employer needs with student opportunities as expectations for both pre‑apprenticeship and apprenticeship pathways are defined.
Antwerp Local School Curriculum Director Elyse Boyer provided updates for their school I complying with the new Ohio Department of Education requirements for CTE, noting that middle school students must now have access to career exploration and career‑based learning activities. Boyer shared that programming in computer science, agriculture, marketing, design, and robotics continues to grow. CTE continues to expand across all local districts.
Hands‑on learning remains a cornerstone of student engagement. Business presentations, demonstrations, and countywide events such as Career Day continue to expose students to a wide range of career options. Several employers emphasized the importance of job shadowing as a prerequisite for student applicants, reinforcing the value of real‑world experience.
Vantage Career Center shared updates on student engagement and upcoming discussions with local schools. Educators participating in the upcoming Career Connection Educator Day Camp will receive additional support in teaching soft skills and connecting classroom instruction to workforce expectations.
The BAC also reviewed several upcoming opportunities, including:
- Teacher Boot Camp and Career Connection Educator Day Camp — June 1–5
- Business & Education participation at the Paulding County Fair — June 6–13
- Leadership development, technical experiences, and youth engagement programs offered this summer by Northwest State Community College and Rhodes State College
In closing the meeting, Scott Strahley, representing the Paulding Chamber of Commerce, shared new ideas for a countywide America 250 celebration in conjunction with John Paulding Days. Plans include a Community Day picnic on the courthouse lawn on July 11, with hopes for school and student participation, as well as an enhanced parade featuring a bike‑decorating contest.
The Paulding County BAC Steering Committee remains committed to strengthening partnerships, expanding opportunities for students, and supporting the long‑term workforce needs of the county.
