Workforce Education Program to Expand

Sandusky Register — A fresh initiative will give Ottawa County high schoolers the opportunity to take their first steps into the local tourism industry.

The Ottawa County Business Advisory Council, which is overseen by the Ottawa County Improvement Corp., will introduce a new program known as the Hospitality and Tourism Academy.

Slated to launch in the fall of 2025, the new curriculum will educate students in operations management, sales and marketing, customer service and other skills.

Hospitality Component

“Tourism is one of the top three private sector employers in our region,” said Katherine Adams, the corporation’s workforce and career exploration manager. “If we train our students, we build a workforce that works here, plays here and stays here, strengthening our communities, building local health and well-being.”

Training components will focus on retail, lodging and basic culinary knowledge.

“Working with our business partners, students will engage in work-based giving them a front-row seat to industry operations and the vast array of careers available that fall under the tourism and hospitality umbrella,” Adams said.

New Industry-Recognized Credential

An industry-recognized credential for students to earn is currently being created.

Development of the program began last year. Organizations involved in development include Shores & Islands Ohio and the Ohio Travel Association.

“The work that the Hospitality and Tourism Academy is doing is something extremely exciting for our region,” said David White, the Greater Sandusky Partnership’s director of workforce and policy. “Collaboratively building a talent pipeline into one of our region’s biggest economic drivers is a critical component to long-term sustainability and growth.”

Current Programs

Other programs offered by the council include the Skilled Trades Academy and the Healthcare Careers Academy Program:

• The Skilled Trades Academy offers forklift training, manufacturing skill standards council certification and more.

• The Healthcare Careers Academy Program helps students gain certifications in health care-related fields.

The programs were created to help educate high schoolers in practical skills and obtain certification to fill in-demand jobs in Ohio’s economy.

Six Ottawa County-based school districts currently offer the programs.