Manufacturing Pathways Pilot

The Manufacturing Pathways Pilot, a program of the Ohio STEM Learning Network, launched with $1.76 million in grants awarded to 10 organizations across Ohio. With support from the Walton Family Foundation, students in 21 school districts will be eligible to enroll in the pathway programs, preparing them for in-demand careers in Ohio’s growing manufacturing sector.

The pilot reimagines the high school experience through real-world, hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for life after graduation. Under the pilot, these 10 organizations are developing innovative delivery models or expanding existing successful Manufacturing pathway or Engineering and Science Technologies pathway programs.

• Berkshire Local School District, Geauga County
• Columbus City Schools, Franklin County
• Fredericktown Local School District, Knox County
• Maysville Local Schools, Muskingum County
• Washington County Joint Vocational School District, Washington County

COLUMBUS, Ohio (May 5, 2025) – Battelle announced the official launch of the Manufacturing Pathways Pilot program to develop and expand innovative manufacturing career pathways in public schools across Ohio. With support from the Walton Family Foundation, 10 grants totaling $1.76 million were awarded to support industry-aligned educational programs that will prepare students in 21 Ohio districts for in-demand careers in Ohio’s growing manufacturing sector.

The Manufacturing Pathways Pilot represents a strategic response to Ohio’s manufacturing talent gap. With significant investments from companies such as Intel, Honda and LG Energy Solution, Ford, and SEMCORP reshaping Ohio’s economy, the state requires increased workforce development efforts to connect students to high-tech manufacturing careers.

Each funded program features cross-sector partnerships between K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and industry partners to ensure alignment with workforce needs. These collaborations enable students to earn college credits and industry-recognized credentials before high school graduation, positioning them for success in manufacturing career pathways.

The grant period runs from March 2025 through July 30, 2026. During this period, Battelle will track performance metrics including enrollment, credential attainment, and student persistence in manufacturing pathways to inform the creation of future pathway programs.

“I’m most excited about the idea of being on the cutting edge of a growing industry in the United States.”

For more information about the program or if you have any questions, please contact this inbox at Battelle.

Battelle Education is a mission-oriented non-profit launched by Battelle to amplify STEM education best practices. Battelle Education also manages the Ohio STEM Learning Network, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce.