MARIETTA— Two Washington County leaders in education are uniting to give area high school students expanded career opportunities in the field of advanced manufacturing. Washington State College of Ohio and Washington County Career Center are partnering to create a pathway for students in their process technology programs.
Beginning this fall, high school students can enroll in the Process Technology program at the career center where they’ll earn a certificate. Once they’ve earned the required credits, students can transfer to Washington State and complete the remaining courses required to earn an associate degree of applied science in industrial technology – process technician.
“These are two great organizations, both with strong leaders, coming together to best serve our community and our region. Together we’re creating a great engineering pathway that results in great employment prospects for our students,” said WSCO Dean of Business and Engineering Dan Leffingwell. “It’s a win on many levels because it allows our two institutions to collaborate in a meaningful way. We are creating opportunities for our students and it supports our local business and industry partners who are desperate to find well-trained, ready-to-work employees,” he added.
Leadership from both institutions recognize the value of this partnership. WCCC Superintendent Dr. Tony Huffman described the partnership as innovative. “This strategic partnership between Washington County Career Center and Washington State College of Ohio will provide an innovative approach to workforce development for area high school seniors. It will bring the best of both worlds together regarding concepts relevant to our process technology facilities in the MOV,” said Huffman. “Additionally, students will be exposed to and have hands-on training with both institutions’ advanced manufacturing and automation equipment. The program will help to prepare the skilled workforce our area plants need – especially now as large percentages of their staff enter retirement age,” he concluded.
Washington State’s President Dr. Vicky Wood cited the importance of the partnership for its ability to allow both institutions to lean into individual strengths. “When we work in collaboration we not only elevate our institutions, we create incredible career opportunities for our students. Students working in our community fortifies our workforce which strengthens the economic impact on this region. Together, we are combining our efforts and expertise to provide seamless pathways for students seeking engineering and advanced manufacturing careers,” said Wood.
