Creating opportunities

Empowering Growth

Manufacturers

Build your employee bench.
Our members identify the scarcity of skilled workers as their foremost obstacle. Through the inclusion of Opportunity Works
© we aim to establish a stream of capable, trained workers to fill the talent needs of industry.

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Job Seekers

Get trained for a great career.
WorkAdvance offers career pathways to individuals seeking sought-after entry-level, manufacturing positions in Lorain, Erie, and Huron counties. Our program links job-seekers to training, job placement, and support services.

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Partners

Join the initiative.
Opportunity Works offers community-based organizations access to resources, networking, and skill development programs.  It boosts visibility and effectiveness through connection and collaboration, leading to more opportunities for all parties.

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our program

Opportunity Works Program

Manufacturing Works powers the Lorain County Manufacturing Sector Partnership (LCMSP), an OMA-endorsed sector partnership. LCMSP has received $930,000 to be used over the next three years as part of The Ohio Manufacturers Association’s (OMA) $23,492,808 award from the Economic Development Administration’s American Rescue Plan Act Good Jobs Challenge program.

Securing the Future. Together

Opportunity Works is an effort to create a pipeline of talent for entry-level manufacturing positions from our region’s untapped workforce.  Opportunity Works uses the proven WorkAdvance approach to recruit individuals into entry-level in-demand manufacturing careers by collaborating with community partners with deep ties to a variety of untapped constituencies.

Women working together
The WorkAdvance Model
OUR PROCESS

What is WorkAdvance?

Recruitment and Screening
Career Readiness
Technical Training
Job Development
Coaching and Retention
Close Open Recruitment and Screening

Identify and attract potential job candidates

Thoroughly screened candidates begin the process, and community partners help remove barriers to employment through supportive services. Jobseekers are able to overcome personal and logistical barriers, making it easier for them to enter the workforce.

 
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Close Open Career Readiness

Soft skills development and job interview prep

Preparing jobseekers with the essential skills that enhance employability. Jobseekers gain confidence and competence in workplace skills, improving their chances of performing well in job interviews, being a productive employee, and succeeding in their new work environment.

 
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Close Open Technical Training

Obtain short-term, specific training such as CMfgA certification 

Designed to meet the demands of entry-level positions in the manufacturing industry, jobseekers acquire the CMfgA certification to validate their skills and knowledge. Employers gain access to candidates who have been trained effectively with technical skills required to perform their jobs from day one.

 
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Close Open Job Development

Matching qualified candidates with job opportunities

Through our relationship with manufacturers who are looking to fill open positions, we provide job search assistance and connect candidates with employers in our network. Employers benefit from a streamlined hiring process, as they receive candidates who have been specifically matched to their job openings, reducing the time and effort required to fill positions.

 
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Close Open Coaching and Retention

Ongoing coaching and support

After job placement, ongoing coaching and support are provided to help candidates retain their jobs and advance in their careers. This includes regular check-ins, problem-solving assistance, and professional development advice to ensure lower turnover rates for manufacturing employers. 

 
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Your company could experience...

50 %

50% more qualified employees

90 %

Less recruiting time

70 %

Hiring and onboarding improvement

trusted by OHIO

Manufacturers

in Lorain, Erie, and Huron Counties.

Manufacturing is Life-Changing

A good job in manufacturing could be just a few weeks away. Free short-term training available. All ages (18 and over), backgrounds and experience levels considered.

Success stories

  • I've learned it's not impossible to turn your life around and dig out of a hole. The help is out there if you want to take it. I'm living proof it's possible.

    Anthony Martin Fredon Corp.

  • Yes, I had obstacles, as does everybody. And I love what I do.

    Patrece Scott WLS Stamping

  • With this chance, I knew I could do more with my future.

    Kevin Fuller Monti Inc.

  • When I was in jail, I was where I need to be. I was on a bad path. I'm just so thankful or everyone who helped me with this opportunity.

    Ashley Zins ClarkDietrich

START YOUR JOURNEY

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