Want to become a tower tech or a gas arc welder? An expert in Google Ads or robotics? We’ve got some great news for you. All Ohioans, including inmates, and many high school students, are eligible to apply for a program to pick up the tab for you to be certified in multiple in-demand careers related to tech careers.
It’s all part of the IMAP program to offer tech-focused credentials for free. It was previously only available to the unemployed, but it’s been expanded for all Ohioans.
Those programs include credentials related to deploying broadband, computer programming, welding for tech, SolidWorks CAD, cyber security, app development, network administration, Google Ads, Goole Analytics, telecommunications tower technician, gas metal arc welding, robotics and automation, artificial intelligence, photoshop, data analytics, fiber optics installer, HVAC technology, Quick Books, Healthcare Information Technology, Microsoft Office, and more.
Lt. Governor Jon Husted said the state will spend $6.2 million to offer these credentials. “We want to remove barriers to job training so more Ohioans can earn skills that are needed now and in the future, and that’s what we’re doing through the IMAP program.”
The courses are offered at 15 schools around the state. While none are in Scioto County, there are some nearby, and many of the programs can be taken entirely online.
Incarcerated Ohioans who are due to be released within 12 months of finishing the program are also eligible to apply. High School students entering their junior or senior year can get a jump on the workforce as long as the credential is not offered through the College Credit Plus program in their district.
To learn more, follow this link to check out the schools and the programs they’re offering:
https://workforce.ohio.gov/initiatives/initiatives/imap/for-individuals
