COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio officials have released a draft of the state’s workforce development plan for 2026-2027, highlighting specific goals for the Mahoning Valley. The report outlines how Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana counties will coordinate education and employment services to meet local business needs.

The plan focuses on high-demand industries in the region, including advanced manufacturing and health care. State data shows that Mahoning Valley counties are part of the Appalachian region, which faces unique challenges. For example, the high school dropout rate in Appalachian counties is 11.7%, which is 3.4 percentage points higher than in other parts of the state. Additionally, Appalachian residents fall behind by 12.7 percentage points for people who hold a bachelor's degree or higher compared to the rest of the state.

To address the disparities, the state will develop "alternative service points" for residents who lack transportation or face other barriers. Alternative service points refer to non-traditional locations where people can access government employment services outside of a standard OhioMeansJobs center.

One example of this strategy is the expanding use of local public libraries. With over 251 libraries in Ohio and over 8 million cardholders, these sites provide a familiar and local environment for job seekers to get help. These locations can provide space for case managers to meet with job seekers and businesses, offer adult education and literacy classes, and provide access to electronic job portals for those without a home internet connection.

Local workforce boards in Area 17, representing Mahoning and Columbiana, and Area 18, representing Trumbull, will oversee the efforts. These boards are part of a larger northeast Ohio planning region designed to streamline services and reduce duplication.

Residents can also access specialized training for the emerging electric vehicle (EV) and broadband sectors. The state is investing in regional "nodes" to ensure that workers in the Valley can gain the skills needed for these 21st-century jobs. The nodes are regional hubs comprised of a 4-year university, a 2-year community college, a local workforce development board, and a community action agency. They are designed to implement training initiatives on a regional scale, tailoring programs to the unique workforce and industry needs of local communities.

The draft plan is now open for a 30-day public comment period, which remains open until Feb. 22, 2026. Community members can review the document on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website. This feedback period allows residents to help shape the future of employment services in their own neighborhoods.