BESTOhio
Industry-Sector Partnership
The BESTOhio (Business & Education Success Team) of south central Ohio is a new voice for our region’s manufacturers. This industry-led sector partnership is building a better workforce through the common ground synergy of industry, education, economic development, human services organizations, and community-based organization leadership.
BESTOhio is endorsed by The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association and covers Scioto, Ross, Pike, Adams, Jackson, Vinton, Lawrence, and Highland counties.
Together, we identify issues, challenges, and opportunities common to the individual employers for the collective good of all current and future industrial and service organizations. As part of these efforts, we will better align business programs, upskilling and entry level training, innovative curriculum design, available providers, funding options, and other resources that best serve both employers and employees.
BESTOhio Opportunities
The JobsOhio Relocation Incentive supports manufacturers by helping attract skilled workers to the region. This program provides financial incentives to individuals and families moving into Ohio to take positions in manufacturing. By reducing the barriers of relocation, employers gain access to a larger pool of qualified talent, strengthening the regional workforce and fueling long-term economic growth.
The Earn & Learn program, led by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) in partnership with Accenture, is an employer-driven model designed to bridge the skills gap across Ohio’s manufacturing industry. Participants gain paid, on-the-job training while earning valuable credentials that align directly with employer needs. BEST Ohio supports this program by connecting local manufacturers with the resources and guidance needed to engage in this statewide workforce initiative.
Through a partnership with Shawnee State University’s Kricker Innovation Hub, BEST Ohio offers specialized training programs designed to strengthen leadership across the manufacturing workforce. The 15-hour Leadership Foundations course equips supervisors with practical communication and team-building skills, while the 24-hour Project Management course develops decision-making and organizational tools. These courses give employers the opportunity to upskill their workforce, support employee retention, and prepare the next generation of leaders. If you would like more information, please fill out our Interest Form here.
For more information about BESTOhio, contact:
Dr. Amanda Hedrick, ahedrick@shawnee.edu