Chillicothe, OH – May 6, 2024 – Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center celebrated a significant milestone with the commencement of its expansion project, marked by a groundbreaking ceremony held on May 6, 2024. The event coincided with the start of Ohio’s In-Demand Jobs Week and garnered attention with the presence of Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted, highlighting the state’s dedication to advancing career-technical education.
The center was awarded over $7 million to expand its carpentry, construction, robotics, and manufacturing programs, reflecting Ohio’s commitment to enhancing vocational education initiatives.
Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted emphasized the critical need for expanded vocational education opportunities, stating, “Employers are pulling their hair out trying to find people with technical job skills.” The expansion initiative responds to the overwhelming demand for vocational education, as enrollment surges, necessitating additional space to accommodate students eager to pursue career pathways offered by Pickaway-Ross.
Superintendent Jonathan Davis expressed excitement about the expansion journey, crediting the state’s Career Tech expansion grants for making it possible. The ceremony featured notable speakers, including Ohio ACTE Executive Director Dee Smith, who praised the center’s commitment to providing high-quality career and technical education.
Justin Hollandsworth, representing Acoustic Ceiling and Partition (ACP), highlighted the profound impact of Pickaway-Ross’s programs on the local workforce and economy. The expansion project signifies a pivotal moment in the center’s history, enhancing its capacity to serve the educational needs of the community and beyond. The new facilities will accommodate the growing student population and facilitate the delivery of cutting-edge programs tailored to meet industry demands.
