Cuyahoga County experienced some exciting manufacturing workforce development efforts this past year. Perhaps the most exciting was the launch of the Planning and Career Exploration Program (PACE) in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD). Designed intentionally with processes and mechanisms for all CMSD students, PACE can support and foster every child’s path, whether they are going to college, straight to the workforce or anywhere between.

More than 50 employers have already committed to or are involved in the PACE curriculum and engagement mechanisms. And with CMSD as large as it is, plenty of room is available for more manufacturers to get involved. Additional information and signup opportunities are available on the PACE website.

The formation of the Greater Cleveland Career Consortium (GCCC) has been key in the complex implementation of PACE. The Consortium has and will continue helping manage relationships between the district, community partners and employers. Each stakeholder group plays various roles in the development of career plans for students, and the Consortium secures the right people to help transform those plans into successful, impactful results.

Besides its proud work, the GCCC is led by Autumn Russell, who is a passionate advocate for manufacturing and an experienced leader in the education community. Russell, who started in the role this month, had previously been leading the Early College, Early Career program at MAGNET.

The GCCC kick-off was a truly inspiring event for those interested in helping students navigate manufacturing careers. The event, hosted by Lincoln Electric, was well attended by key partners and featured the support of County Executive Budish and Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb.

Together, the launch of the GCCC and PACE program are innovating the way students find career paths and will require a wide community effort to ensure the transformation and success of manufacturing careers.