Throughout the City of Harrison, many businesses are hiring. Opportunities in healthcare, food service, retail, skilled trades and many other fields are boundless. However, many businesses face a critical shortage of workers to successfully run their businesses. To help fill the gap, The City's Economic Development Department has joined forces with community groups to offer solutions.
A Workforce Development Committee is organizing as a joint effort between the City, The Southwest Local School District, Greater Harrison Chamber of Commerce, and many businesses in the community. The Committee is also forming a board of directors of seven to nine educators and business leaders to create a not-for-profit 501c3 status that will allow the organization to secure grants. The grants will then be invested in student and adult job training and also support local company hiring efforts. Additionally, the School District and Chamber are already implementing several job-related efforts.
Southwest Local School District has introduced new programs, such as advanced manufacturing and customer service and sales, to prepare students entering the workforce during high school and after graduation. Assistant Superintendent Corinne Hayes is partnering with local businesses to provide students on-the-job learning experience and specialized training. Southwest Local Schools was recently selected by Buckeye Educational Systems and LJ Create Inc. as a “Program of Excellence” and was awarded a complete STEM Career Exploration Lab for the new Harrison Junior School. Hayes will give an online presentation about these initiatives for the business community Oct. 26. Registration is available through Greater Harrison Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber is also inviting local businesses to participate in the Harrison Career Tech Experience Day and Job Fair Sept. 30 at Harrison High School Activity Center. Throughout the day, Southwest Local students in grades 6 through 12 will learn about careers in welding, construction, cosmetology and automotive through the Great Oaks career labs. Employers may be on site to share their opportunities. The event will open to the public from 3-6 p.m., giving adult job seekers the opportunity to meet companies that are hiring. Details and employer registration are provided here. The Chamber also has upcoming workshops to address workforce development and posts jobs for members on their website.
Provided photo of a welder at F&M MAFCO in Harrison.