by Isabella Carwile | Apr 17, 2026 | Business Expansion, Events, Funding, Jobs, PCED Office, Property Development, Shoutout, Workforce
NORTHWEST OHIO – The Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) office and the Williams County Economic Development Corporation (WEDCO) have been selected by the SelectUSA Investment Summit committee to represent rural Ohio economic development at the 2026 SelectUSA Foreign Direct Investment Summit. The Investment Summit will be held in Washington, D.C., May 3–6.
The SelectUSA Investment Summit is the premier national event dedicated to promoting foreign direct investment (FDI) in the United States. The Summit plays a critical role in attracting and facilitating business investment and job creation by raising global awareness of opportunities across the United States. It also provides direct, high‑value connections between international companies and U.S. economic development organizations (EDOs).
The northwest Ohio offices were selected following the recommendation of Paul Zito, Vice President of International Development for the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP), the northwest Ohio arm of JobsOhio. Zito recognized that two rural Ohio counties would be selected, and encouraged all RGP member counties to apply. WEDCO Director Ashley Epling and PCED Director Tim Copsey submitted applications and were chosen by the national committee to receive complimentary admission to the Summit.
Copsey stated, “It’s certainly an honor for Paulding County to be recognized by the national SelectUSA committee to represent rural Ohio, but then also having Williams County chosen from our local six‑county area just highlights the great things that are taking place in this corner of Ohio. Paulding County would not be able to attend this event without this selection award.”
“It’s a great opportunity for Williams County to be part of a larger conversation around investment and growth. Being selected to represent rural Ohio at the SelectUSA Investment Summit speaks to the work that’s happening here locally and the momentum we’re continuing to build. We’re looking forward to making connections, sharing what our communities have to offer, and highlighting why northwest Ohio is well-positioned for international investment” stated WEDCO Director Ashley Epling.
Both Paulding and Williams Counties have certified industrial sites available for immediate sale, as designated by the Ohio Department of Development. The certification indicates that the properties have completed all required environmental due diligence and are considered shovel‑ready for investment.
Both counties received complimentary admission for two representatives. In addition to Copsey, PCED Administrative Assistant Jessica Stechschulte will represent Paulding County. WEDCO Director of Workforce Development Jennifer Stantz will join Epling, representing Williams County.
The SelectUSA Investment Summit attracts more than 5,500 participants annually and has directly contributed to more than $250 billion in new U.S. investment projects, supporting over 125,000 jobs across the United States and its territories. Historically, participants represent more than 100 countries, joining economic developers from 54 U.S. states and territories, including more than 1,100 EDO representatives.
by Isabella Carwile | Apr 10, 2026 | Business Advisory Council, Community, Events, Jobs, PCED Office, Shoutout, Workforce
Paulding County Economic Development Press Release April 10, 2026
PAULDING -Paulding County is celebrating another outstanding Career Day event. The annual event brought together 56 vendors and 334 students participating from throughout the county and some students from Continental school in Putnam County. The event continues to grow as a cornerstone experience for local students exploring future career pathways.
This year’s theme encouraged students to “dress to impress” and arrive ready to engage with employers, educators, and hands‑on demonstrations. The result was a high‑energy day filled with meaningful conversations, interactive learning, and real-world exposure to the opportunities available right here in northwest Ohio.
“Career Day is all about helping students discover what’s possible,” said Jessica Stechschulte, Administrative Assistant for Paulding County Economic Development. “Having the chance to speak with employers and try hands‑on activities opens their eyes to new opportunities and makes their future feel real.”
Students had the chance to explore a wide range of industries—from manufacturing and skilled trades to healthcare, business, education, and public service. Many vendors brought interactive activities that quickly became highlights. A few examples were Northwest State Community College showcasing their welding simulator, giving students a safe, hands‑on introduction to welding techniques. Baughman Tile brought a mini remote-controlled forklift, allowing students to test their coordination and learn about equipment used in modern manufacturing. Logisticize brought a new semi cab for students to sit in and experience what it is like to sit behind the wheel of a big rig, and both the county engineer and sheriff brought vehicles to sit in and enjoys as well.
These experiences helped students not only learn about potential careers but also discover new interests and talents.
Career Day continues to serve as a vital bridge between local employers and the next generation of talent. By offering direct access to resources, professionals, and hands‑on learning, the event supports the Paulding County Business Advisory Council and Economic Development (PCED) office mission to strengthen the region’s workforce and inspire students to pursue and fulfill local, future‑ready careers.
PCED extends its sincere appreciation to all participating schools, businesses, educators, and volunteers who made this year’s event a success.
by Isabella Carwile | Feb 25, 2026 | Business Advisory Council, Community, Events, Jobs, PCED Office, Shoutout, Workforce
Paulding County Economic Development Press Release February 25, 2026
PAULDING – The Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) office will host its annual Paulding County Career Day on Tuesday, April 9. The event will take place at the Paulding County OSU Extension Building, located at 503 Fairground Drive from 8a-12p. The event is open to the public from 8a-9a.
High school students from Antwerp, Paulding, Wayne Trace, Continental, and Vantage Career Center will be attending this event to explore career pathways and engage with participating businesses, colleges, and nonprofit organizations.
“Last year, we welcomed more than 51 businesses and colleges, and we are anticipating another strong turnout this year. We encourage employers and institutions seeking talent to contact us for details on participating,” said Jessica Stechschulte, Director’s Assistant at Paulding County Economic Development.
The event is for mor than just hiring a future workforce. The event to to show students what products are made her in the county and the region. It gives employers an opportunity to share their business name, their logo, and engage with students to help them feel comfortable if the need to find employment down the road.
This year, through Business Advisory Council discussions, the schools and businesses have decided to have the students prepare resumes and “dress to impress” to make it a more meaningful event for everyone involved.
To sign up to display, or for additional information, please contact Jessica Stechschulte at of****@**ed.net.
by Isabella Carwile | Feb 12, 2026 | Blight Projects, Brownfield, Business Expansion, Community, For Sale, Funding, Jobs, Land Bank, PCED Office, Property Development, Residential
PAULDING – The Paulding County Mayors Association recently met for the first quarter meeting. Eight of the county’s eleven villages were represented, demonstrating the growing engagement and collaboration throughout the county.
Special guest Ohio House Representative Jim Hoops shared with the group his intent to run for the Ohio House Senate seat. There was extensive discussion in regard to ongoing property tax reform efforts, outlining potential impacts on local governments and residents. His presentation encouraged continued communication between residents, local and state officials.
Megan Deneen attended on behalf of House Representative Josh Williams. Deneen shared an update on Williams’ intent to run for the 9th District Congressional seat and local projects he has already been discussing, making sure village leaders were aware.
Scott Sands, representing the Auditor of State Keith Faber’s office, introduced himself and distributed contact information, reinforcing the office’s commitment to accessibility and support for local governments.
Estee Blair of the Maumee Valley Planning Organization provided an update on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, encouraging villages to explore available funding opportunities for community improvement projects. Blair identified which programs have open slots for this allocation year in the county.
Paulding County Economic Development Director Tim Copsey shared that the 2026 Ohio allocated residential and commercial blight funding for the county Land Bank has been reduced to $230,000 this year. Previous years have been $500,000. There are identified properties remaining from the 2025 applications that were not submitted for clean-up, so there is already a list for 2026 review. Copsey did ask the village representatives to share worst case properties for additional consideration before the 2026 list is completed, but assured the group that the county will use all allocated funding again this year.
Copsey also requested that all villages review and submit updated zoning maps to share with the county engineer’s office, and also to help with future planning and redevelopment efforts.
During open community input, Gabby Hook, Fiscal Officer for the Village of Grover Hill, asked the group for advice and suggestions regarding potential assistance or funding sources for residents experiencing well failures. The failure of local wells and accompanying water issue has been a concern and seems to be growing. The area leaders discussed similar situations from the past and shared possible avenues for water and financial support.
The meeting concluded with reminders that continued collaboration is essential to strengthening the Paulding County communities and economy.
by Isabella Carwile | Feb 11, 2026 | Community, Events, Jobs, PCED Office, Workforce
HICKSVILLE – The Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) office recently coordinated an exploratory learning tour at Sabre Industries in Hicksville, Ohio. The tour included more than 40 students from Antwerp Local, Paulding Exempted Village, Wayne Trace Local Schools, and the Paulding County Opportunity Center. Students who indicated an interest in a welding future were treated to an up-close look at large-scale welding operations tied to Sabre’s steel pole fabrication and production.
Through collaboration with Defiance County Economic Development Director Erika Willitzer, the PCED office learned that Sabre is actively seeking a large number of welding and production employees to support its expanding production needs. In response, PCED worked with Sabre Industries administration team to organize a tour for students who expressed interest in welding careers, giving them the chance to see the profession in action and better understand the skills required.
The Sabre admin team shared valuable information with students about the overall company, but specifically the Hicksville facility. Discussion included safety, quality, production aspects, and employee benefits.
“This experience was valuable on multiple levels,” explained PCED Director Tim Copsey. “Some students realized welding wasn’t the right fit for them, while others left more excited and hope to pursue the trade. Both outcomes are wins—career exploration is about clarity, not pressure.”
The tour served as a pilot for what PCED hopes are more future workforce-focused field experiences. PCED will be gathering student feedback on what worked well, what could be improved, and what additional elements would make future tours even more impactful.
Copsey is encouraging local employers to consider hosting similar student tours, “If your business needs to build a future workforce, now is the time to open your doors. If you don’t have a pipeline of employees ready to step in, or if you have team members nearing retirement, it is time to introduce students to your industry to help secure your workforce for tomorrow.”
The next collaborative workforce event will be the Paulding County Career Day. It is scheduled for April 9 from 8:00a to 12:00p at the county fairground campus. This event brings together all junior and senior students countywide. Businesses throughout the region that are interested in participating or arranging a facility tour are encouraged to contact the PCED office to reserve a spot.
by Isabella Carwile | Feb 11, 2026 | Business Advisory Council, Community, Events, Jobs, PCED Office, Workforce
PAULDING – The Paulding County Business Advisory Council (BAC) is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Paulding Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2405. The Paulding Eagles will host future lunch‑and‑learn meetings. The collaboration reflects the county’s ongoing commitment to uniting business, industry, and education in support of local workforce development.
The February meeting featured updates on several upcoming student‑business interaction events across the region. This week, more than 40 Paulding County students toured the Sabre Industries facility in Hicksville, Ohio to learn about their business, welding, and manufacturing career pathways. The event was a joint communication effort between Paulding County Economic Development and Defiance County Economic Development.
Antwerp High School Principal Jessie Arnold shared details about the school’s new Junior High Career Connections event taking place next week. Fourteen area businesses, representing a range of industry clusters, will meet with students to discuss career opportunities, mentoring possibilities, and how early exposure can help guide future high school course planning.
Paulding High School Panther for Careers Coordinator Shawn Brewer provided an update on the after-school welding class led by instructor Staci Miller. The program collaborates with Northwest State Community College (NSCC) and the economic development office to coordinate credentials. The class will take a tour at Mansfield Welding soon, and bring additional industry presenters to the classroom to broaden student to business exposure.
Wayne Trace High School Curriculum Director Tim Manz noted that the STEAM program continues to evolve and looks for additional business partnerships to connect students with real-world problem-solving scenarios.
Paulding County Economic Development Director Tim Copsey announced updates in regard to the county’s summer educator program. Formerly known as Teacher Boot Camp, the initiative will now be called the Career Connection Educator Day Camp. Educators will have the option to register for a single day focused on math, science, social studies, arts/specials, or ELA career connections, or attend the full week to earn CEU credit.
Representatives from NSCC and Rhodes State explained upcoming adult and school-aged student learning events that are coming up at their respective schools.
Looking ahead, the BAC discussed several major events planned for 2026, including:
- County Career Day on April 9 at the Paulding County Fairgrounds
- Business displays at the Paulding County Fair in June
- Build Your Future skills development event that will be held in partnership with Vantage Career Center at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds in September
These initiatives reflect the BAC’s continued commitment to strengthening the county’s talent pipeline and creating meaningful connections between students, educators, and employers.
For more information about the Paulding County BAC or to get involved, please contact the Paulding County Economic Development office.
