Forging the Future: Celebrating MAGNET's 40th Anniversary

MAGNET, as the backbone of Cuyahoga County's Manufacturing Sector Partnership, goes beyond filling open positions—we're creating a strong, sustainable talent pipeline equipped to meet the demands of our partner employers and seize the opportunities of modern manufacturing. Programs like ACCESS and CoachU are at the forefront of these efforts, driving workforce development and connecting talent with life-changing careers.

Sector Partnerships: A Unified Approach to Workforce Development

MAGNET's Manufacturing Sector Partnership embodies a collaborative, demand-driven approach to workforce development. By understanding employers' needs and partnering with organizations that can help people prepare for work in manufacturing, we’re ensuring that local manufacturers have the talent they need. From training to placement to retention, these programs create a comprehensive ecosystem that supports both individuals and businesses.

ACCESS: Empowering Careers in Manufacturing

ACCESS is one of our cornerstone programs, providing participants with the skills, training, and support they need to launch meaningful manufacturing careers. Over the past year, ACCESS, operated by partner organization Towards Employment, has achieved remarkable year-over-year growth in both graduation and placement rates, further validating its impact:

• Graduation Rates: 31% increase in 2024
  More participants are completing the program, equipped with the certifications and soft skills needed to enter the workforce.
• Placement Rates: 31% increase in 2024
  Graduates are securing positions in manufacturing, meeting the demand of local employers eager to hire skilled talent.
• Average Starting Wage: $18.22/hr in 2024

One participating company shared that ACCESS graduates had a 5% lower turnover rate than those hired for similar roles who hadn't benefited from this program, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in preparing individuals for long-term success.

CoachU: Strengthening the Workforce Development Ecosystem

CoachU offers local professional development for career coaches that focuses on connecting individuals with in-demand industries. In the past year, CoachU coaches placed an impressive 528 people in manufacturing positions, a significant increase from 448 placements the year before. These placements outpaced other industries like healthcare and IT, underscoring the role of the sector partnership in engaging job seekers and those who work with them with the opportunities available. 

Initially launched with large workforce development organizations, CoachU has expanded to include community-based organizations that also help people make occupational choices and prepare for work. Over 20 local organizations have participated in CoachU to date, meaning that job seekers have a greater likelihood than ever before of encountering trained career coaches who can help them make informed decisions about their careers. 

Value the Manufacturing Sector Partnership

ACCESS and CoachU exemplify the transformative power of MAGNET’s Manufacturing Sector Partnership, showcasing the impact on workforce development for participating employers:

• • Scalability: Both programs continue to grow steadily, adapting to meet the needs of employers and participants while maintaining high-quality outcomes, even as cohort sizes align with capacity constraints.

  • Retention and Career Growth: These initiatives are not just about job placement; they emphasize creating lasting success by fostering long-term retention and providing clear pathways for career advancement.

  • Strengthening Systems: Through diverse organizational engagement and collaboration, programs arising from MAGNET's Manufacturing Sector Partnership are broadening their reach, reaching more individuals ready to launch careers in manufacturing. 

Looking Ahead: Building on this Momentum

As we look to 2025 and beyond, MAGNET is committed to driving even greater impact through the Manufacturing Sector Partnership. By focusing on retention, advancement, and alignment with employer needs, we’re proving that workforce development isn’t just a program—it’s a movement that benefits individuals, businesses, and communities alike.

For more information on ACCESS, please visit Adult Talent Development | Manufacturing Careers in Ohio and to learn more about CoachU, please visit Workforce Partnerships for Manufacturers and Employees.