AU awarded half million in IMAP funding from state to expand workforce training
ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland University was awarded nearly $500,000 from the Ohio Department of Development and the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation to expand no-cost workforce training that prepares Ohioans for careers in the rapidly growing telecommunications and broadband industries. The $499,650 award through the Individual Microcredential Assistance Program (IMAP) makes AU one of only 12 workforce training providers selected statewide—and the only recipient in Ashland County or the surrounding region.
Building on its role as one of Ohio’s leading providers of telecommunications workforce training, AU’s Telego Center for Innovation in Workforce and Education will increase access to short-term, industry-recognized credentials, including the 5G Readiness curriculum from the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) and the newly-launched OpTIC Certified Fiber Splicer training from the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA).
Stephanie Meeks, AU’s director of workforce development, said these programs align closely with IMAP priorities by preparing students for high-demand, high-wage careers that are essential to Ohio’s economic growth and infrastructure needs. She noted that the training helps develop a skilled workforce capable of supporting a wide range of industries, including 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, Ph.D., 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. We are grateful for this partnership and its role in helping AU prepare graduates to lead, serve and succeed in an evolving economy.”
AU, in partnership with WIA, was one of only two institutions selected in 2021 to take part in the State of Ohio’s 5G Readiness Pilot program and has been delivering the training to eligible IMAP participants since. To date, 45 participants have completed the full industry-recognized certification. In addition, students have earned 475 stackable microcredentials that can be used independently to qualify for in-demand positions such as small cell technician, wireless technician and fiber optic technician.
“Ashland University has established itself as a leader in broadband workforce development in Ohio, helping expand access to industry-recognized training that prepares learners for careers building and maintaining the communications networks that power our economy,” said Tim House, chief operating officer of WIA. “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. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Ashland University as we work together to expand access to these critical skills and create more opportunities for Ohioans to earn valuable credentials and pursue careers in the broadband and wireless infrastructure industry.”
The IMAP award also supports AU’s expansion of the OpTIC Certified Fiber Splicer training, which is already producing results thanks to a partnership with the Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center. The first cohort—students from Cardington-Lincoln Local Schools and the Northmor Local School District—completed their training this past May after being introduced to fiber optic fundamentals with emphasis on practical skills such as fiber handling, splicing, testing and network readiness, all key competencies needed to support the rapid expansion of broadband infrastructure. These skills support entry into fiber broadband, telecommunications, construction and related technical fields, as well as further education and training opportunities.
“FBA is thrilled that Ashland University has adopted the OpTIC Path Fiber Broadband Microcredential System for its IMAP program. Students will gain valuable fiber broadband knowledge and industry-aligned skills that can help them launch new careers or advance existing ones in one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries,” said Deborah Kish, vice president of research and workforce development at the Fiber Broadband Association.
Both 5G and Fiber OpTIC certification will be offered this fall no-cost to those who are eligible for IMAP funding. The delivery is hybrid, with most of the modules online. Some modules require instructor-led or in-person participation.
For more information, visit ashland.edu/wfd or email workforcedevelopment@ashland.edu.