As workforce demand accelerates across Ohio and employers continue expanding their presence in the state, the selection of Aspyr, to lead the new WorkOhio initiative in Central Ohio marks a pivotal moment in building a stronger, more connected regional talent pipeline.

On January 26, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel announced the launch of WorkOhio, a statewide effort designed to make it easier for Ohioans to access in‑demand job opportunities, career coaching, and training resources through a streamlined online gateway and seven regional job hubs. The Central Ohio WorkOhio region is led by Aspyr with the Central Ohio Workforce Development Network (CODWN), the Greater Ohio Workforce Board Inc., the South Central Ohio Workforce Partnership and OhioMeansJobs Areas 7 and 20, all recognized as trusted organizations already embedded in the state’s workforce ecosystem, make a powerful team. 

Why the Central Ohio Hub Matters Now

The timing of Aspyr’s selection is significant. Ohio is experiencing one of the strongest workforce surges in recent memory, driven by corporate investment, population inflows, and record-setting labor market performance:

• Central Ohio is emerging as a national destination for major employers, drawing companies such as Anduril, Wells Fargo, Intel, Google, and Honda—organizations citing the region’s talent availability as a top reason for expansion. 
• The state’s unemployment rate is at historic lows, signaling high demand for workers across all sectors and creating new opportunities for residents upskilling or career‑changing.
• Long‑term labor projections show sustained job growth in high-demand fields, particularly in technology, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and construction—sectors critical to Ohio’s future competitiveness. [ohiolmi.com]

With this economic momentum comes a pressing need to ensure that Ohioans can access the pathways leading to these jobs. That’s the gap WorkOhio—and specifically Aspyr’s leadership in Central Ohio—is designed to bridge. Scott Johnson, Director of COWDN says,
“We’re excited to launch WorkOhio in Central Ohio and connect more residents to training, support, and in-demand careers. Paired with our OhioMeansJobs Centers and our Community Connector Network — and under the Lt. Governor’s leadership — this initiative will help more people get to work.”

What Aspyr Brings to the Central Ohio Region

ASPYR’s designation as the Central Ohio hub positions the organization as the driver of a more seamless local workforce experience. As part of the WorkOhio network, Aspyr will:

• Facilitate a primary point of contact for residents seeking personalized career assistance, responding to inquiries submitted through the new WorkOhio.gov platform within two business days.
• Leverage deep knowledge of regional industries, employer demand, and workforce needs to match jobseekers with opportunities quickly and effectively.
• Strengthen coordination with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services as well as a network of community connectors—including schools, nonprofits, training institutions, and service providers—to ensure jobseekers receive comprehensive support.

These responsibilities align closely with the priorities outlined in the South Central Ohio Regional Workforce Plan, which emphasizes collaboration, alignment with statewide strategies, and a no‑wrong‑door approach to workforce services.

WorkOhio’s User‑Focused Approach

At the core of the WorkOhio model is simplicity and access:

• Residents can visit the new WorkOhio.gov portal to explore job tools, training programs, and career resources designed for different stages of life and work.
• Those seeking one‑on‑one support can connect directly with regional job experts without needing an account or navigating complex systems.
• The platform integrates statewide resources developed under Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Tressel to streamline job searching and reduce barriers for Ohioans looking for a fresh start or a new career direction. 

Positioning Central Ohio for the Future

The selection of Aspyr as the Central Ohio hub arrives as employers, economists, and policymakers agree: Ohio’s workforce is a decisive competitive advantage.

Economists highlight available land, infrastructure, and a robust education pipeline – including institutions like The Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College – as key drivers of corporate interest and economic growth in the region. And while certain industries, like construction and healthcare, face significant worker shortages projected into 2026 and beyond, coordinated regional strategies are essential to closing those gaps and preparing residents for high-opportunity roles.  WorkOhio – supported by Aspyr’s local leadership – is now positioned to help the region capitalize on this moment of economic expansion.