About Us

The Central Ohio Compact is a regional strategy focused on developing a talented workforce that can meet evolving employer needs. Led by Columbus State and funded through a five-year, $2.5 million investment from JPMorgan Chase & Co. New Skills at Work Initiative, the Compact serves as a convener and collaborator among K-12 districts, higher education institutions, employers, state officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders. The Central Ohio Compact's goal: 65% of Central Ohioans will have a postsecondary degree or certificate by 2025.

As part of the Columbus State Community College Dual Credit Program, College Credit Plus classes provide high school students with the opportunity to earn college credit while still enrolled and actively engaged in high school. College Credit Plus classes are taught on site at participating high schools, during the regularly scheduled high school day, by qualified teachers who have college-level adjunct faculty status and the support of Columbus State. The Dual Credit program also offers high school students the opportunity to take college courses at a Columbus State campus or regional learning center during the day, evening or on weekends – or even online.

In collaboration with the National Science Foundation, Honda North America, Rimrock Corporation, AutoTool and several additional industry partners, our Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology (EMEC) program has produced an efficient high school to college to career pathway: the Modern Manufacturing Work-Study Program. Students complete two semesters of full-time coursework at Columbus State, then enter into the work-study portion of the program in their third semester. Each student is hired by a partner company and works three full days a week (with pay), attending class the other two, for up to 18 months. This allows them to become immersed in the Electro-Mechanical industry, participate in meaningful work, and graduate with the skills to seek immediate employment.