In-Demand Jobs

May 5, 2023

In-Demand Jobs: Statewide & Locally

Stark Education Partnership celebrates In-Demand Jobs Week! Hosted by the State of Ohio and local workforce organizations, this annual celebration promotes fast-growing, societally essential career fields.

Ohio’s “Top Jobs List”

Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted are connecting Ohioans to high priority careers through Ohio’s Top Jobs Dashboard which highlights two major types of employment: in-demand and critical jobs. In-demand jobs are defined as those that offer Ohio a strategic economic advantage and require 21st century skills. Equally important, critical jobs – like first responders, educators, medical and mental health providers, and construction roles – protect the community’s health and wellbeing.

Stark County’s In-Demand Careers

JoAnn Breedlove, Executive Director of the Stark Tuscarawas Workforce Development Board, has helped lead the charge in empowering residents to find meaningful employment – especially within in-demand careers. An in-demand job, Breedlove explains, provides an opportunity for employment with life-sustaining wages and career growth. She recommends visiting Ohio Means Jobs’ new In Demand Careers site to connect with in-demand jobs, industries, and local resources. Additionally, Stark County job seekers are encouraged to utilize the Stark Jobs Platform (detailed in the April 7 Issues article).

Economic Impact of In-Demand Jobs

In-demand jobs support the livelihoods of individuals and families, as well as the economic growth and vitality of Stark County.

James T. Batchelder, President of the Stark County Manufacturing Workforce Development Partnership, described the impact of manufacturing on the Stark County Economy: "Manufacturing is a key driver of Stark County’s economic future. There are 26,000 employees making products, drawing paychecks, and paying taxes at 550 manufacturers located in Stark County – [and those] manufacturing jobs and money spent create other jobs and investments! …[O]n average, the addition of a manufacturing job will result in the creation of at least nine total jobs in the economy… [F]or every $1 spent in manufacturing, another $2.74 is added to the economy. It is critical that we add the necessary human resources to satisfy the available in-demand jobs so our local economy can continue to grow, and our residents can follow a career path to life success!"

IT and logistics careers are in-demand fields supporting nearly every other modern industry. Software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence are essential business roles. Likewise, CDL drivers, logistics coordinators, and supply chain managers facilitate global product distribution. Stark County's Kenan Advantage Group (KAG) is a key player in logistics. Chief Human Resources Officer, Ralph Lee, says of the company’s economic impact: "You’ll see our trucks all over North America...but we’re proud to call Stark County home. KAG is North America’s largest bulk transportation and logistics provider to energy, specialty products, merchant gases, and food product industries... [W]e employ more than 10,000 people and 7,000 drivers, which is a top in-demand position for our organization."

The healthcare sector, featuring in-demand and critical roles, is a leading contributor to the local economy. Aultman Health Foundation and Aultman College are the largest healthcare employers in Stark County, employing more than 7,000 individuals. Aultman College President, Jean Paddock Ph.D., believes in training the next generation of workforce by educating young people for careers in healthcare through real-world interactive learning experiences: "Aultman Health Foundation HR does a great job in hosting students, and we appreciate the teamwork we have with them. All of us are jointly interested in promoting healthcare as an amazing career option in our local communities."

With the inarguable importance of in-demand jobs, SEP remains committed to career-connected learning and helping students find the intersection between their interests, abilities and local opportunities.

Stark Education Partnership is a catalyst, engaging and collaborating with education, business, civic and community stakeholders to drive sustainable improvement and innovation to provide all students with education and career success. View as Webpage