YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - With just ten days until the last Chevy Cruze rolls off the production line, the Vice President of Eastern Gateway Community College said only about 20 to 25 people have signed up for free tuition and training. While the college recognizes the decision to go back to school may not be easy, they want to make sure those caught in the ripple effect of layoffs know the opportunity that is out there.

When it was first announced GM Lordstown would stop the production of the Chevy Cruze, it was only a matter of time before a ripple effect of layoffs followed.

"We're talking about Magana, we're talking about Jamestown Industries, we're talking about Custom Packaging, all of those downstream businesses," said Eastern Gateway Community College Vice President Arthur Daly.

Daly said employees laid off at all of those companies are eligible for free education at Eastern Gateway Community College. He said, the Lordstown Initiative, as it's been coined, isn't only for GM workers but anyone impacted by the plants closing, including family members.

"Their spouses, their children, their nieces, their nephews, their grandkids. This opportunity for the Lordstown Initiative is far-reaching," said Daly.

Eastern Gateway is offering both in-seat and online courses.
Students can graduate with an associates degree or a variety of certificates.

  • Business Management 
  • With optional concentrations in:
  • Information Systems (includes embedded Google IT Help Desk Certificate)
  • Health Care Management
  • Human Resources
  • Marketing
  • Finance
  • Labor Studies
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Hospitality
  • Cyber Security
  • Data Science
  • Criminal Justice
  • Associate of Arts
  • Teacher Education
  • Accounting
  • Paralegal
  • Individualized Study
  • Patient Navigator

Students and alumni can also receive help developing a resume, networking and getting exposure to potential employers through on-campus recruiting and career fairs.

Credits can also transfer to other schools for higher education. The Eastern Gateway Community College website can be accessed here. 

"We don't want people to leave, we want them to stay and a more educated workforce then brings in new opportunities," said Daly.  "We are a community college, the most important thing to say about the community college is we are here to serve the community and that's something we take pride in."