Terra helps students with manufacturing training

FREMONT -- Terra Community College will provide the technical education while WSOS will provide the students and support -- thanks to funding from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. This educational partnership is an effort to improve the education and employment skills of 18-21-year-olds in an eight-county area of Northwest Ohio.

The first group of students has been enrolled in the Manufacturing Technology certificate program for the fall semester at Terra Community College. This unique training program is available to eligible youth in the eight-county area of Wood, Sandusky, Ottawa, Seneca, Erie, Huron, Hancock and Wyandot counties.

Administered by WSOS, this 16-week certificate program is free to the eligible participants. The program provides area youth with an opportunity to earn college credits and prepare to enter the workforce. It also provides the opportunity to transfer those credits to a degree program at Terra.

The two area organizations collaborated with area industries, administration, and workforce development professionals to design a specialized manufacturing training program aimed at meeting the needs of area industries.

The perfect participant of this program is that individual who has a strong interest in technology, but who may be facing barriers such as being involved in the court system or who may have dropped out of school. The program will assist the participant to attain his/her educational goals in order to meet employers' needs in NW Ohio.

Those enrolled will participate in classes of welding, electricity, machining, computer applications, and other technology and trade areas. The program also provides supportive services to help participants through any transition issues that may arise.

WSOS will be conducting applicant interviews throughout the eight-county areas in September and October for youth interested in starting Terra's program in October or January. The program is limited to 20 eligible youth.

According to Roger Fisher, employment coordinator at WSOS, this is an ideal training program for individuals who have a desire to learn and also have an interest in technology, a strong mechanical aptitude, and most importantly a strong work ethic.

Those interested in securing a seat in October or January or who want more information on the program should call Fisher at WSOS at 1-800-775-9767.