Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announced on Wednesday the launch of TechCred, a program that connects businesses with the talent they need and gives employees the ability to earn industry-recognized, technology-focused credentials, better preparing them for a job in today’s advanced, technology-infused economy.

Workforce remains a top issue for Ohio’s employers and TechCred serves as the next step in attempting to solve this problem. The Ohio Chamber supports this program which is included in House Bill 2, and the funding for the implementation of the program was a part of the state’s main operating budget. TechCred is designed to assist employers in “upskilling” their existing workforce as well as attracting prospective employees.

The application process is competitive and merit based as opposed to a first come, first serve approach, which will increase access to businesses who are interested in pursuing this program. Within this application, there will be grant money available for companies of various sizes, ranging from small businesses to medium and larger employers.

The online application opens next week on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2019. An initial list of eligible credentials is provided, but employers can request a credential be added to the eligibility list by submitting an application for TechCred to be reviewed by a panel of stakeholders. The state will reimburse up to $2,000 of training upon completion of a credential.

Through this program, businesses can identify the specific qualifications they need and employees they want to upskill toward a more advanced position. In partnership with a training provider, the employer can apply online at TechCred.Ohio.Gov. HB 2 is currently scheduled for a committee hearing in the Senate Finance Committee next week, and it is our hope that this bill will move quickly to codify the process outlined for TechCred and assist in its implementation moving forward.