ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Representatives from business, industry and education attended Tuesday, November 22, the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center Business Advisory Council (MVBAC) meeting hosted by I.B.E.W. Local 1105. The MVBAC is comprised of more than 140 members from seven counties and links business and educators to strengthen the pipeline of talent graduating from school districts in Coshocton, Hocking, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Perry and Tuscarawas counties.
During the meeting, Ashley Labaki from I.B.E.W. Local 1105 shared information she gained during a recent visit to Intel in Texas. Labaki’s insight is important as the region prepares to become home to an Intel chip manufacturing facility that will employ 7,000 people during construction, and more than 3,000 permanent workers when the facility comes online in 2025.
Also, during the meeting, Marietta-based Building Bridges to Careers (BB2C) discussed and highlighted partnerships with Mid-East Career & Technology Centers focusing on the real-world problem scenario. Additionally, Julie Mettler from the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services explained ApprenticeOhio, and the 16 career clusters in which apprenticeships can and will be developed.
“Our goal is to ensure participating districts understand the resources and programs that are available to them in order to prepare their students to meet the workforce needs of area employers,” said Justin Denius, Director, Workforce Development, MVESC. “The Business Advisory Council also allows employers to talk directly to educators making sure learning opportunities are aligned with skills necessary for success in the world of work,” he added.
Denius noted the successful launch of the MOV ESC Driving School in 14 school districts in eastern and southern Ohio is one program that helps eliminate the first barrier to workforce development. Additionally, MVESC is actively pursuing new workforce initiatives including development of a Teacher Academy, plus Medical Career Pathways for area students.
Businesses interested in joining or learning more about the MVBAC are encouraged to contact Justin Denius by calling 740-452-4518 or emailing justin.denius@mvesc.org.