Preparing Workers for the New Economy

The idea of a global economy is no longer new. Everyone now recognizes that worldwide issues impact jobs and productivity, and that these issues play out in the marketplace for ideas and services rather than last century’s arena of products and manufacturing.

But the forces reshaping the world of work are even more far-reaching than the repercussions of a global economy.

Tomorrow’s workplace will be amped up – a fast-moving environment powered by technology and the social and creative skills of adults who grew up in the digital age. New tools that allow for small-scale design and production will enable entrepreneurial and do-it-yourself enterprises that do business in whole new ways. And the economy almost certainly will have to adapt to system shocks brought on by climate change, energy shortages, health pandemics and other disruptions.

Green Jobs for Ohio

The loss of traditional manufacturing left a continuing legacy of struggles in Ohio: economic, employment, environmental, educational and social. But there is good news: Our state’s manufacturing is being revitalized by adapting to green industries. Ohio businesses sense this transformation: They project very substantial growth in green business and green employment over the next several years and decades.

Download our report on the outlook for green jobs in Ohio »

We are helping ensure that Ohio and its workforce are prepared to thrive in tomorrow’s workplace. Our goal is to connect those at risk of getting left behind in a new economy – especially low-wage workers – with the education they need for the 21st-century careers critical to Ohio’s economic prosperity.

New careers for low-wage workers » Ohio companies need trained workers and Ohio workers need good jobs. That’s the simple premise behind two programs that link employers’ needs and workforce training opportunities to help workers make the transition from factory jobs to knowledge-based careers.  

Advocating for adult learners » Adults seeking training for better jobs need an education system that allows them to shape an experience that meets their needs. We work with state leaders to create policies that make it easier for adult learners to move between institutions or pursue education while working.