June 3, 2025 -- Columbus City Schools announced today its participation in the Ohio STEM Learning Network’s Manufacturing Pathways Pilot, a program to develop and expand innovative manufacturing career pathways in public schools across Ohio. Columbus City Schools is one of 10 grant recipients sharing in $1.76 million awarded to support industry-aligned educational programs that will prepare students in 21 Ohio districts for in-demand careers in Ohio's growing manufacturing sector.

The Manufacturing Pathways Pilot is a program of the Ohio STEM Learning Network, a public-private partnership between the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce and Battelle. This initiative is a strategic response to Ohio's manufacturing talent gap, where employers need over 30,000 technicians annually to meet workforce demands. With significant investments from companies such as Intel, Honda and LG Energy Solution, Ford, and SEMCORP reshaping Ohio's economy, Ohio needs increased workforce development efforts to connect students to these high-tech manufacturing careers. This program helps prepare students for high-demand careers in Ohio's growing manufacturing sector while reimagining the high school experience to give students access to real-world, hands-on learning that prepares them for life after graduation. 

Columbus City Schools will implement an expanded Engineering and Science Technologies pathway beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. The program features cross-sector partnerships with the Central Ohio Manufacturing Partnerships (COMP) to ensure alignment with workforce needs.

“We are excited about the opportunity to align our curriculum with regional demands,” explains Jennifer Meade, Director of Career-Technical Education. “This initiative aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in these career fields.” 

This pathway will enhance the educational opportunities for students at Beechcroft High School, Eastmoor Academy, Northland High School, and West High School. By incorporating SACA (Smart Automation) Industry Credentials into the current Project Lead the Way Curriculum, students will receive advanced training in Smart Automation, preparing them for careers as Industrial Maintenance Technicians, Automation and Robotic Technicians, Advanced Manufacturing Technicians and Production Technicians. Through partnerships with local industries students will also have greater access to work-based learning opportunities and career exploration.

"Battelle is committed to addressing the critical workforce needs in Ohio's manufacturing industry," said Heather Sherman, Battelle's project manager for the pilot program. "These grants will empower schools to create innovative delivery models that help students earn valuable college credits and industry credentials before they graduate from high school."

Staff from the funded programs will collaborate through a community of practice designed to provide space to share implementation strategies and solve challenges. Participating schools will receive technical assistance to support their efforts in marketing, partner engagement, and student recruitment. Battelle will track performance metrics including enrollment, credential attainment, and student persistence in manufacturing pathways to inform the creation of future pathway programs.

About the Ohio STEM Learning Network
The Ohio STEM Learning Network is committed to helping the State of Ohio inspire and train the next generation of innovative leaders. The network operates as a public-private partnership between the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce and Battelle.

About Battelle
Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.

Media Contact
Katy Delaney
(614) 424-7208
delaneyk@battelle.org