Belmont College Celebrates National Workforce Development Month with Career-Building Opportunities

St. Clairsville, OH (September 16, 2025) – Belmont College is celebrating National Workforce Development Month by highlighting the college’s role in preparing Ohioans for in-demand careers through innovative programs, partnerships, and resources that drive the state’s economy.

“Workforce development means filling jobs, but far more importantly, it’s about opening doors,” said Dr. Paul F. Gasparro, president of Belmont College.

“At Belmont College, we’re giving Ohioans of every age and background a chance to step into rewarding careers, whether that means a high school student earning college credit, a parent reskilling for a better job, or a veteran starting a new chapter,” said Gasparro.

According to the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC), Ohio’s 22 public two-year institutions serve nearly 250,000 Ohioans each year. With more than 1,000 employer partnerships statewide, community colleges are the top workforce partner for Ohio employers and the best value in higher education for students.

“Workforce wins happen when education and employers pull in the same direction,” said Avi Zaffini, president and CEO of OACC. “Ohio’s community colleges are doing exactly that—co-designing short-term credentials, apprenticeships, and upskilling pathways that help Ohioans step into opportunity and help companies grow.”

The state’s community colleges play a crucial role in preparing Ohioans for jobs in high-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and the skilled trades. Employment records in many critical sectors are being regularly set, with these 21st-century job opportunities helped by the work of Ohio’s community colleges.

Belmont College collaborates with OhioMeansJobs Centers, local employers, and regional industry leaders to deliver practical training, apprenticeships, and job placement services. Belmont programs are tailored to meet the needs of students and businesses, ensuring graduates are ready to contribute to Ohio’s thriving economy.

Key offerings include:

  • Career-Focused Programs: Degrees and certificates in high-demand fields such as nursing, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.
  • Workforce Training: Short-term certifications and customized training to upskill or reskill for local job opportunities, including, CDL, welding, safety training, and healthcare training.
  • Job Placement Support: Free resume workshops, career fairs, and one-on-one advising to connect students with employers.
  • Community Partnerships: Close ties with OhioMeansJobs.com and local businesses to provide firsthand experience and job pathways.

“Belmont College plays a vital role in strengthening our region’s workforce,” said Jeremy Morris Grant Writer, Workforce Development Education Coordinator. “Our programs align directly with the needs of local employers, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled workers ready to drive our community’s economic growth.”

Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the state’s commitment, stating, “Through OhioMeansJobs.com and our local OhioMeansJobs Centers, we have many resources to help Ohioans find a great job so they can reach their full potential and achieve their version of the American dream.” DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel have officially recognized September to be National Workforce Development Month.

To explore Belmont’s programs or access career resources, contact the college’s Workforce Development Office at 740.699.3800.

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