June 7, 2023 -- Community partners and several school districts in Central Ohio recently gathered for the inaugural Career Tech Forward Conference at The Ohio Union. 

Tuesday’s conference marked the first collective conference hosted by the Columbus City Career Tech Planning District. The conference focused on economic growth and preparing students for all opportunities in Ohio. 

“Everyone here serves as thought leaders and partners to guide students to success,” said Dr. Angela Chapman, Superintendent/CEO of Columbus City Schools, to attendees on Tuesday. “I know that we are all working together toward a common goal. Here, we are doing the important work of laying the foundation for future industry leaders.” 

With Central Ohio’s growth in manufacturing biotechnology, along with historic investments in the area, there will be a need for employees to fill these jobs. The day brought together Columbus City Schools, Westerville City Schools, Upper Arlington City Schools, Grandview Heights Schools, and Columbus Charter and Nonprofit CTPD members. 

Additionally, attendees could earn continuing education credits and join sessions focusing on industry credentials, understanding growing fields, and having opportunities to connect with business partners.

Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Kenny McDonald, President and CEO of The Columbus Partnership, discussed Central Ohio’s growth, economy, and opportunities for the future.  

“We can and should take action now to ensure that our continued growth is both intentional and inclusive,” Mayor Ginther said. “We don’t just want to be bigger. We want to be better, and if we’re going to grow by a third in this region over the next 30 years, we want to make sure it’s dynamic and inclusive. We must see to it that our growth in this city encompasses both the talent and aspirations of our incredible young people, our rising titans of industry, our entrepreneurs, and our future leaders.” 

Kenny McDonald provided a snapshot of Central Ohio’s economy and reminded attendees of the importance of thinking ahead to the future. 

“I want to promise everyone that we are not only thinking about our development and execution of our strategies every day, but our eyes are more on 2030 than on 2024,” he said. “That long-term thinking is critical to all of us.”