Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes ofwebsite accessibility

Research shows vocational education benefits not just students, but also state's economy


As more people find new careers, vocational schools are finding new students. New data shows that specialized training pays off not only for the students, but for the state's economy as well. (WKRC)
As more people find new careers, vocational schools are finding new students. New data shows that specialized training pays off not only for the students, but for the state's economy as well. (WKRC)
Facebook Share IconTwitter Share IconEmail Share Icon

SHARONVILLE, Ohio (WKRC) – As more people find new careers, vocational schools are finding new students. New data shows that specialized training pays off not only for the students, but for the state's economy as well.

Inside the Great Oaks Career Campuses in Sharonville, students are sharpening their skills nearly every evening. From building homes to building engines, learning life-saving skills and how to help shape young minds, the possibilities are endless for students in high school and adults looking for a new career.

The Great Oaks network is putting the right tools in the hands of students of all trades.

"Being a trade worker is definitely a dying breed,” said student Summer Rodgers.

But to Rodgers, welding is life.

"My grandpa was a welder; my aunt is a welder, so I think, pretty much, it was meant for me to come here,” said Rodgers.

Rodgers, a longtime food industry worker, says it was time for a change.

"I wanted to go somewhere that was not retail or fast food. I wanted to do something different,” said Rodgers.

And she's not alone. Research from the University of Cincinnati Economics Center and the Ohio Association of Career Technical Superintendents shows trade school education generates $1.4 billion in economic activity and supports more than 15,000 jobs.

"Completing a career technical program results in more earnings on average, and that leads to increased revenue and sales tax income for the state of Ohio,” said UC Economics Center Research Associate Megan Heare.

Proving trade work still has and -- will continue to have -- value.

"Well, we generally look at a bachelor's or associate's degree as a pathway to higher earnings, but we also found the jobs that individuals have for specialty training through career tech education provided a quality alternative for workforce development,” said Heare.

The research states during the 2018-2019 academic year, a total of nearly 11,000 adult students enrolled in Ohio’s 51 technical centers.

"That's exactly it. The opportunity is to leverage your future a little bit quicker,” said Great Oaks CEO Harry Snyder.

Something Rodgers is already doing.

"It’s a lifetime job. You’re always going to need a welder. You’re always going to need a carpenter, a plumber, so I feel like trade school is job security for your family,” said Rodgers.

The study shows that, on average, career technical certificate holders have annual earnings of more than $46,000 within five years of starting.

To read more about this research project, click HERE.

Loading ...