Jim Tressel Speaks on Central Ohio Workforce Growth at Olentangy Schools
Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel visited Lewis Center on Thursday night to speak with Olentangy Schools students, parents, and staff about the future of Ohio’s workforce. With Central Ohio experiencing rapid growth as major companies continue to expand into the region, new job opportunities are emerging every year.
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“We are fortunate here in Ohio, especially in Central Ohio,” Tressel said. “Today we are already seeing strong job growth, but in the next 5 to 8 years, the opportunities will be extraordinary.” He emphasized the importance of preparing young people now to meet future career demands.
Olentangy’s BridgED program plays a key role in that preparation. The initiative connects students with local employers in industries aligned with their career interests, giving them exposure and readiness before they graduate high school.
Molly Preston, assistant director of strategic partnerships at Olentangy Schools, reinforced the need: “Many large companies are choosing Central Ohio for headquarters and expansion. We want to ensure our students are ready to step into these roles.”
Some of the fastest-growing careers in Ohio include information technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. According to OhioHealth’s Workforce Development and Academic Partnerships team, employers are constantly hiring across all education levels.
Mindy Sanford, senior advisor at OhioHealth, noted that beyond technical expertise, employers also seek strong communication and adaptability skills. “We see fewer people comfortable with face-to-face conversations today, but these professional skills remain critical,” she said.
While acknowledging the current challenges for new college graduates, Tressel stressed that Ohio remains full of opportunity for those who are flexible. “Technology and techniques will always evolve,” he said. “That does not eliminate jobs, it just transforms the kinds of jobs available.”
Preston added that adaptability is key for students’ futures: “It is about awareness and flexibility, pursuing what you love, even if it looks different than you originally imagined.”
With Central Ohio’s booming economy, Olentangy Schools recognizes that early exposure to career pathways is essential for helping students succeed in tomorrow’s workforce.
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