by Isabella Carwile | May 14, 2026 | Business Advisory Council, Business Expansion, Community, Events, Funding, Jobs, PCED Office, Workforce
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.
by Isabella Carwile | May 13, 2026 | Business Expansion, Community, Events, Funding, Jobs, Membership, New Business, PCED Office, Shoutout, Workforce
Paulding County Economic Development Press Release May 13th, 2026
PAULDING – The Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) Board of Directors convened recently to hear key updates on regional business support programs, workforce initiatives, and ongoing organizational priorities.
Jessica Sattler of the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP) provided an in‑depth presentation on two major JobsOhio programs designed to strengthen business expansion and talent attraction across the state.
Sattler highlighted the JobsOhio Small Business Grant, which offers up to $50,000 in financial assistance to eligible Ohio companies seeking to grow their operations. She also outlined the JobsOhio Relocation Incentive, a statewide initiative supporting employers who recruit out‑of‑state STEM and technical talent. Under this program, qualifying Ohio employers may receive $15,000 per eligible new hire who relocates to Ohio and establishes permanent residency, with a maximum benefit of $225,000 for up to 15 hires.
PCED Director Tim Copsey also provided a report on his recent travel to Washington, D.C., where he and Office Manager Jessica Stechschulte represented rural Ohio at the SelectUSA Investment Summit. Copsey shared the excitement of showcasing Paulding County on an international stage, noting productive conversations with JobsOhio representatives from Columbus and abroad, as well as meetings with foreign delegations exploring investment opportunities in the United States.
Committee updates during the meeting included progress on ongoing marketing initiatives, along with recommendations from the Governance Committee regarding bylaw revisions and updated position titles to better reflect organizational responsibilities.
Board members also discussed current economic conditions within their respective sectors and communities. These conversations reinforced the Board’s commitment to supporting business growth, strengthening workforce opportunities, and addressing the evolving needs of Paulding County’s residents and employers.
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 | Mar 9, 2026 | Business Expansion, Community, Funding, PCED Office, Property Development, Residential, Shoutout, Workforce
For Immediate Release
March 9, 2026
ANTWERP – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has announced $9 million in statewide grant awards to support residential growth and workforce housing. Among the top recipients is the Village of Antwerp (Paulding County), which secured $2.3 million to advance a long-anticipated workforce housing development positioned along the US24 highway.
Other award recipients include: the City of Youngstown (Mahoning County) – $2.5 million; the City of Hamilton (Butler County) – $2.5 million; the City of Lancaster (Fairfield County) – $1 million and the City of Warren (Trumbull County) – $851,000
These five awards were selected from 48 applicants who requested a combined $99 million, placing Antwerp’s project among the most competitive and highest-ranked proposals in the state.
The project represents one of the most significant housing investments in county history and stands as a testament to persistence, partnership, and community vision.
The Antwerp development project began with the completion of the US24 highway in 2012. At that time, the Antwerp, Payne, Paulding County Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) secured a purchase option agreement on approximately 30 acres in the northwest corner of the US24–State Route 49 interchange.
As more detailed marketing efforts progressed, it became clear in 2020 that the option did not include US24 frontage, nor a designated access point into the property. A critical breakthrough came when Jane and Leo Stumphy donated a residential property located between the optioned land and SR49, enabling access into the option property. Kauser Excavation removed an existing building structure on the property and leveled the ground surface. This allowed the Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) office to apply for and secure a $350,000 Ohio Department of Development grant to construct 300’ of easement road, surface drainage, and curbing, demonstrating to potential investors that the community was committed to a long-term growth plan.
New discussions then began with the highway frontage property owners, the Marlin family and Antwerp Community Church. One of the parcels was located in Carryall Township, the other in Antwerp Village. This led to a plethora of meetings between 2021 and 2024 involving PCED, the CIC, Village of Antwerp leadership and elected officials, Carryall Township trustees, County Commissioners, County Auditor office, County Engineer office, and two related Powell, Ohio-based investment groups—BMJW Investments, LLC and MWB Investments, LLC. These meetings ultimately brought the property all into the village and secured options on the entire 90‑acre area between Antwerp Local School and US24.
In 2025, the two Powell, Ohio‑based investment groups completed the land purchase and began planning what is now known as Antwerp Square. Their early work included surveys and environmental studies to prepare the site for potential funding opportunities. To qualify for this particular grant, the project needed to demonstrate at least 100 residential build lots, which the Antwerp Square plan meets. The awarded funds will support the extension of roads, water, sewer, and natural gas needed to bring those new homes to market.
A second access easement was now needed for the newly acquired US24 frontage. The best fit was a 1.2-acre parcel, also owned by Antwerp Community Church. It is located between the church parking lot and the Dollar General building. Although the CIC and church quickly reached a purchase option agreement, immediate funds were not available.
To bridge the gap, the CIC invited investors to sponsor the naming of the first existing easement road. Mrs. Sue Meyer stepped forward, securing naming rights as Meyer Avenue. Her family’s contribution enabled the CIC to purchase the final easement lot and complete the land control required for this project.
The Paulding County Economic Development office coordinated communication and project management throughout the 14-year process. Current PCED Director Tim Copsey emphasized the extraordinary teamwork behind the effort:
“This grant award was made possible because of the amazing collaboration of so many forward-thinking individuals, groups, elected officials, and businesses over the years that could see a goal of growing the Antwerp community together. Starting with that very first property option, positive help came through the Stumphy donation, Kauser Excavating team, Pastor Rick Grimes and the church board, the Nazarene District Board, the Marlin family, the Meyer family, Antwerp Village representatives and council members past and present, the township, PC Auditor, Engineer, Commissioners, Prosecutor, the CIC Board of Directors, BMJW and MWB Investment groups, the list goes on. At one point, seven sets of attorneys were involved.”
“It has been quite a learning experience. There was anxiety, stress, and if we are being honest, at times we thought we weren’t going to get this over the finish line. Determination guided us throughout this project. We are blessed with so much collaboration. Having the Ohio Department of Development recognize this as one of the top five workforce development projects in all of Ohio makes it all worthwhile.”
With state funding now secured, Antwerp is positioned to move forward with a residential development that will attract new families, support workforce needs, and strengthen long‑term population growth in the community and Paulding County.
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.
