Columbus, Ohio – Ohio is expanding its efforts to prepare students for high-demand careers by approving $8 million in new funding through the Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills (RAPIDS) program. Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, and Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey made the announcement, highlighting the state’s continued focus on workforce development and innovation.
The RAPIDS program is designed to help public universities, community colleges, and career technical centers purchase modern, industry-grade equipment that mirrors the tools used in today’s top job sectors. This hands-on training prepares students to enter the workforce with skills aligned with local business needs.
“Our RAPIDS grants offer a unique opportunity for Ohio’s campuses and career technical centers to help address specific workforce needs at the local level,” said Governor DeWine. “On an individual level, these grants give our students a tremendous opportunity to learn and refine their skills on the same top-of-the-line equipment being used by cutting-edge businesses across Ohio.”
Regional Needs Drive Equipment Investment
One of the key strengths of RAPIDS is that it tailors funding to meet the specific needs of each region’s economy. The new equipment will be shared among multiple campuses, maximizing its impact while keeping education more affordable and accessible.
“Making sure we’re preparing our workforce of tomorrow to fill all of the incredible job opportunities in Ohio is really a team effort,” said Lt. Governor Tressel. “By investing in this state-of-the-art equipment so more students can access it, and by taking regional workforce needs into consideration, this program will position more of our kids to be career ready the moment they graduate.”
Chancellor Duffey emphasized the collaboration between educators and employers: “The RAPIDS program has been a great example of businesses and our higher education institutions working together to develop strategic plans for using these funds. These awards prepare students for success in the workforce, and that pipeline of skilled workers further strengthens Ohio’s economy.”
Funded through the State Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget, the grants will be distributed to nearly 100 educational institutions across Ohio following approval by the state Controlling Board. This effort ensures that the next generation of workers is trained with the most up-to-date tools to meet the demands of an evolving economy.
