(KETTERING, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted today announced that 35 Ohio schools will receive grants totaling almost $200 million through the Career Technical Construction Program, helping expand education and training facilities to serve more students. At the event, they also announced the launch of the first application period for the Career Technical Education Equipment Grant Program, which opened today.

One of the recipients was Pickaway-Ross Career and Technology Center, which will receive $7.6 million from the state for changes to the commercial carpentry, construction technologies, robotics and advanced manufacturing, and HVAC programs. PRCTC Superintendent Jonathan Davis was on hand for the announcement. 

“Ohio is on the rise. We have 54 companies coming to or expanding their operations into Ohio, creating thousands of jobs,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “We need all hands on deck to support this economic growth, and that’s why it’s vital that we help our career centers expand.”

“With this announcement, not only are we creating more opportunities for all Ohio students to earn a career technical education, but we are also giving them more opportunities to be career-ready when they graduate,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “Having access to high-quality equipment that Ohio businesses use will help students swiftly transition from classroom to workplace.”

Of the 59 applicants for the Career Technical Construction Program, 35 were awarded almost $200 million. This funding will be used to build and expand classrooms and training centers at JVSDs, compacts, and comprehensives across Ohio in various programs like engineering, manufacturing, health sciences, construction, and more. 

The application for the Career Technical Education Equipment Grant Program opens today and closes December 15th. The funding opportunity is open for all schools in Ohio who need to upgrade their equipment to teach their students with equipment Ohio businesses use in the workplace. Funding may be used to purchase equipment including machinery, software, classroom supplies, operational costs, curriculum, materials for instruction, and more.

"This significant investment means more than just state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment. It's an affirmation to every student, parent, teacher, and employer in Ohio that we believe in the potential and promise of CTE. Ohio is not just investing in facilities and equipment; we are investing in dreams, aspirations, and the very future of our state," said Dee Smith, Ohio Association of Career Technical Education Executive Director.

Schools interested in applying for the Career Technical Education Equipment Grant Program can visit education.ohio.gov/Topics/Career-Tech/Program-Enhancements/Expanding-Opportunities-for-Workforce-Readiness

From Pickaway-Ross:

The OFCC has awarded Pickaway-Ross with a grant to support the expansion of its career-technical education facilities, showcasing our commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for students in our area.

The application process, which began in May of 2023, involved rigorous evaluation against specific parameters set by the OFCC which included:

Increasing Student Enrollment: PRCTC demonstrated its capacity to boost student enrollment, reaffirming its dedication to meeting the educational needs of the community.

Additional Student Support: The center highlighted its commitment to offering additional support in in-demand programs, aligning with the Ohio in-demand jobs list to meet the evolving workforce needs.

'Shovel-Ready' Plans: PRCTC presented detailed plans that reflect its readiness to initiate construction promptly upon receiving the grant, ensuring efficient project execution.

Business Partner Support: Substantial support from local business partners showcased strong community backing for the project.

Investment Commitment: PRCTC committed to investing a significant portion of its own funds, demonstrating a shared responsibility for the project's success.

PRCTC's application detailed a two-phase proposal to enhance its career-technical education facilities:

Construction Trades Expansion: The first phase will comprise a 16,000-square-foot expansion with two high bay labs on the east side of the existing building. PRCTC will invest $4.7 million, while the state will contribute $7.6 million to realize this expansion.

Healthcare Expansion: Although not selected in this application, PRCTC also had plans for a 24,000-square-foot expansion on the east side of the building to accommodate growth in healthcare programs.

With the OFCC's decision to fund the construction trades expansion, PRCTC is moving forward to bring this vision to life.

Construction Timeline

The official project announcement was made today, November 3, 2023, marking the exciting beginning of the expansion journey. Over the next few months, PRCTC will diligently work on selecting an architect and assembling a team of professionals to assist with the construction process. The center will also engage its dedicated staff in the planning process, fostering collaboration and shared enthusiasm for the expansion.

The projects are required to be completed by September 30, 2026, aligning with the ambitious goals set by PRCTC to enhance its educational facilities.

PRCTC is deeply grateful for the support of the OFCC and the community's steadfast commitment to the growth and development of career technical education opportunities for students in the region.