WOOSTER − OhioMeansJobs' On-The-Job Training Program (OJT) is an opportunity for recent high school graduates to jump start their careers. The program is designed to provide job training and hands-on experience to applicants seeking job-centric skills and knowledge.

Recently, area high school students visited the OhioMeansJobs Career Expo at Wayne College to explore opportunities.

According to Richard Owens, Wayne County Job and Family Services (WCJFS) director, more jobs are available than applicants, and companies are working hard to attract and retain top talent.

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Companies go extra mile to hire, retain employees

“Employers are hiring individuals that don’t quite have the skill set they need, but if they are dedicated, show up and pass a drug screening, employers are ready and willing to hire them,” Owens said. “They are also offering things like split shifts to accommodate work and life balance, and they are paying well above minimum wage.”

Sandy Elliot of the Wayne County Schools Career Center echoed Owens.

“Companies are investing more in their employees,” Elliot said. “They are spending more on training and there is funding available for customized training and apprenticeship programs.”

The Workforce Program administrator for OhioMeansJobs, Bob Young, urges employers to take advantage of the federally funded OJT Training program that reimburses them up to $13,000 to hire and train new employees.

“We will do everything we can to help the employee and employer lessen the financial burden of training to become employed,” Young said. “A completed apprenticeship program provides workers with a handsome salary and a credential that can be taken anywhere upon completion. It is a college alternative.”

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Job hunters get experience, networking

For recent high school graduates and displaced workers, taking advantage of OJT programming can be a great way to jump start careers and gain the experience and skills needed to succeed in the workforce, like:

• Hands-on experience in their chosen field.

• Networking with other industry professionals.

• Participants are often paid while they learn.

• Being a part of an OJT program is a conduit for personal growth by helping to identify individual strengths and weaknesses.

The length of the training varies depending on the employer and the specific training program. Typically, training lasts six-12 months.

To apply, visit https://ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov and complete the application form.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for the Wayne County government.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: OhioMeansJobs helps industry, job seekers with employee needs