Stark State College to lead $2.35 million NSF advanced manufacturing grant

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, Aug. 5, 2026 – Stark State College will lead a statewide effort to modernize engineering technology education and address Ohio’s growing need for skilled advanced manufacturing technicians through a $2.35 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant.

The initiative, known as the Strategic Coordination for Advanced Learning and Employment in Manufacturing (Ohio Scale-M) Consortium, will create a statewide model for aligning education with industry workforce needs in automation, artificial intelligence and microelectronics. Launched in partnership with the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, Lorain County Community College and Owens Community College, the consortium aims to strengthen Ohio’s manufacturing workforce while creating a framework that can be replicated in other states.

Manufacturing is Ohio’s largest economic sector, and new and large-scale investments in advanced manufacturing are fueling demand for more skilled workers. However, the state faces a critical technician shortage, a persistent skills gap and an aging workforce. At the same time, technology is evolving rapidly. AI-driven automation is transforming advanced manufacturing, creating a need for technicians with new and increasingly sophisticated skills.

“With more than 3,100 students earning engineering technology and manufacturing-related degrees and certificates each year, Stark State is uniquely positioned to help lead this effort,” said Para M. Jones, Ph.D., president of Stark State College. “By working with partners across Ohio, we are strengthening the connection between education and industry, expanding opportunities for students and helping build the workforce Ohio manufacturers need to compete and grow.”

The Ohio Scale-M Consortium will address these challenges and increase the supply of Ohio’s qualified manufacturing technicians by:

• Modernizing manufacturing technology programs to align with industry needs and help learners move from workforce training into college credentials and rewarding careers.
• Providing faculty with training in AI to strengthen their understanding of the technology and its growing role in manufacturing.
• Increasing awareness of manufacturing careers through expanded K-12 outreach, work-based learning opportunities and the Ohio Manufacturing Association Ambassador program.

The project will begin with the three partner community colleges and expand to include six additional colleges over a four-year performance period. The phased approach will support high-quality curricula implementation, employer engagement and alignment with Workforce Pell-eligible pathways.

For more information, please contact Collyn Floyd, director of marketing and public relations, at cfloyd@starkstate.edu.