ASHLAND — Ashland University has been awarded $499,650 from the Ohio Department of Development and the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation to expand free workforce training in the broadband and telecommunications industries.
The award, funded through the Individual Microcredential Assistance Program, makes the university one of 12 training providers selected statewide and the only recipient in Ashland County and the surrounding region.
Through its Telego Center for Innovation in Workforce and Education, the university will offer short-term credentials, including the Wireless Infrastructure Association’s 5G Readiness curriculum and the Fiber Broadband Association’s OpTIC Certified Fiber Splicer training.
Both programs will be offered this fall in a hybrid format, with online modules and required in-person instruction.
Stephanie Meeks, director of workforce development at the university, said the programs prepare students for high-demand careers in healthcare, education, utilities, construction, logistics and technology.
“Receiving this funding is a meaningful investment in Ashland University’s mission and in the future of our region’s workforce,” said Shawn Orr, dean of eAshland.
“This support allows AU to expand educational opportunities, strengthen workforce development initiatives across campus and create more pathways for students to gain the skills, experiences and credentials that employers need.”
In 2021, the university teamed with the Wireless Infrastructure Association as one of two institutions in the State of Ohio’s 5G Readiness Pilot program. Since then, 45 participants have earned full industry certification, and students have completed 475 microcredentials for roles such as wireless, fiber optic and small cell technicians.
“Ashland University has established itself as a leader in broadband workforce development in Ohio,” said Tim House, chief operating officer of the Wireless Infrastructure Association.
“Through its successful delivery of WIA’s 5G Readiness curriculum, Ashland has demonstrated how higher education and industry can work together to address workforce needs.”
The state grant also supports the expansion of the fiber splicer training. In May, the program’s first cohort—students from Cardington-Lincoln Local Schools and Northmor Local School District—completed training covering fiber handling, splicing, testing and network readiness through a partnership with the Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center.
“FBA is thrilled that Ashland University has adopted the OpTIC Path Fiber Broadband Microcredential System for its IMAP program,” said Deborah Kish, vice president of research and workforce development at the Fiber Broadband Association.
“Students will gain valuable fiber broadband knowledge and industry-aligned skills that can help them launch new careers or advance existing ones.”
More information is available at ashland.edu/wfd or by email at workforcedevelopment@ashland.edu.