YSU’s Workforce Education and Innovation receives awards toward technology trainings

Youngstown State University's Workforce Education and Innovation has secured a $902,000 grant through the Super Regionally Aligned Priorities and Delivering Skills Program (RAPIDS). This grant will be used to increase the capacity for in-demand Industrial Maintenance, Robotics and Electrical Technician training.

State support through programs like Super RAPIDS strengthens the region’s ability to better support growing employer demand. Utilizing technologies from Universal Robotics, FANUC robotics and Amatrol, YSU is meeting the needs of companies across the region and providing students with training to meet the challenges of the future.

Since formally opening in June 2021, the Excellence Training Center has served 535 members of the community, including YSU students, companies and individuals with 882 course completions. Top programs include FANUC and Rockwell certifications, Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA), OSHA certifications and Industrial Maintenance.

YSU Workforce is committed to expanding outreach efforts to individuals, organizations and local businesses, further raising awareness about the opportunities offered.

Additionally, YSU received a $126,920 grant for 5G Readiness and Broadband training through Super RAPIDS. These funds were part of a larger $742,734.67 grant that was awarded to YSU’s Workforce Education and Innovation’s regional Northeast Ohio Node partners.

The grant will be used for equipment needed for WIA 5G Readiness, FOA Fiber Optic Technician, NATE Telecommunications Tower Technician 1, Broadband Infrastructure and Networking certificates, certifications and degrees. The Northeast Ohio Node currently works to spread awareness of the career opportunities in the Broadband and 5G telecommunications industry. In-demand careers include Telecommunication Equipment Installers and Repairers, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, Electrical Engineers, Electronic Engineers and more.

Lindsey Ekstrand, Director of YSU Workforce’s IT Workforce Accelerator Training Center, said that this award was crucial.

“Technology is changing at a rapid pace. This grant ensures that our Northeast Ohio partner institutions have access to the latest technology and training platforms to support the emerging broadband and 5G industries,” Ekstrand said.

It is estimated that over 100 students across Team Neo’s 18 footprint will benefit from this grant in 2024 alone.