These three organizations, led by Wright Tool President and CEO Terry Taylor, Mayor Bob Genet, and former BCDC Executive Director Larry Lallo, collaborated to bring job training right into the heart of Barberton.
The training is offered to residents by Stark State College and by The University of Akron through classes held at Barberton High School. The workforce development initiative involved the Barberton Community Foundation as well as the Ohio Board of Regents.
Hundreds of individuals take advantage of classes that offer training in math, sciences, computer applications and health care administration. Residents and employees of Barberton companies can develop their math skills, or their interpersonal communication or business management skills in familiar surroundings. The high school is easy to get to and offers convenient, free parking.
“We need to get small businesses to grow in Barberton, and what the BCDC is doing is wonderful,” said Taylor. “Workforce development will help not only existing companies, but also other organizations who choose to move here in the future. There is nothing more important than having a well-educated, highly trained workforce.”