Roemer Announces $750,000 in Capital Budget Funding for Middle School Trades Education Center

COLUMBUS- State Rep. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) met with Patrick Scherer, Scout Executive of the Great Trail Council, to discuss the $750,000 awarded to the Middle School Trades Education Center through Substitute House Bill 2, in conjunction with State Senator Roegner, the state's two-year construction budget for capital projects across Ohio.

The Middle School Trades Education Center will become the hub for school students to get hands-on education in experiences in plumbing, electrical, HVAC, welding, carpentry, and 3D Design. The center will be located at Camp Manatoc in Peninsula, Ohio, serving over 60,000 middle school students.

"Getting our students interested in skilled trades from an early age will help our future workforce better prepare for the jobs of tomorrow while meeting growing industry needs," said Roemer. "This investment is an opportunity for thousands of middle school students to learn valuable skills close to home."

"Students and families are not aware of the opportunities available within the skilled trades. Providing hands on learning opportunities during middle school can allow young people to start more advanced training during high school and launch into apprenticeship programs all while being paid and not incurring any student loan debt.," said Scherer. "Currently for every five skilled workers retiring there are only two entering the profession. This is a great opportunity for youth that are interested."

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed the legislation on June 28, creating additional opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in multiple skilled trades.