New Workforce Development Program Launches

As you know, the challenge of today’s labor market in Ohio food production and farming are unprecedented as our farms and companies continue to struggle to find a stable, reliable workforce.

Futures Grow Here is a new collaborative initiative among Ohio food production and farming companies to educate students, young professionals and their families about their growing and innovative businesses and career opportunities that may have not been previously considered. The Ohio AgriBusiness Association has provided seed funding to help with the launch of the program to help change the overall perspective of agriculture and food production jobs and to create a pipeline to lead candidates to our skills-based jobs.

The website, FuturesGrowHere.com, recently launched and features:

• Information on the importance of food production and agriculture to the U.S. economy and the stability of careers within the industry
• Examples of innovative, high-demand food production and agriculture careers and the skills necessary for such positions
• Case studies on individuals who have been successful in their positions
• Top reasons and benefits to work for one of the nation’s largest food companies
• Links to partners’ websites, including the Ohio AgriBusiness Association’s website
• Information for parents to learn more about the benefits of careers in food production and agriculture

Futures Grow Here will be promoted through a robust social media presence, earned media efforts, speaking opportunities, and engaging with top career-tech and education leaders throughout the state.

As the program continues to grow, please think about employees who might be great to highlight on the website or additional photos or videos that are applicable. Please send this information directly to Diane Hurd at diane@inspireprgroup.com.