WORLDWIDE INSTITUTE FOR SUCCESS AND EXCELLENCE
The Worldwide Institute For Success And Excellence (W.I.S.E.C.E.O.) newsletter brings you news, policy insights and stories on digital access, workforce development and economic mobility for historically underserved communities.
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WHAT WE DO
Programs built to open doors.
Every issue of this newsletter connects back to the work: technology, training, careers and community.
CAREER PATHWAYS
Careers in Ohio’s growth industries
Training and resources that lead to real jobs — from hospitals and labs to job sites and farms.
Spotlight: Skilled Trades
Get paid to learn a skilled trade, with no tuition bill and no college debt.
Registered apprenticeships let you earn a paycheck while you train for in-demand trades like electrical, welding, and advanced manufacturing. Apprenticeship.gov lists openings you can search by trade and location.
Who Qualifies: Career pivoters and job seekers who want hands-on work, plus local employers who want to train their own talent. Most programs accept ages 18+ (some 16+) with a diploma or GED.
The Path: Search Apprenticeship.gov for your trade and area, contact the program or employer, and apply. Once accepted, you work and train at the same time. Most programs last 1 to 5 years, and many skilled trades take about 4.
The Outcome: A paid position from day one, plus a nationally recognized credential when you finish. Your pay rises as your skills grow. Starting wages vary by trade and employer.
YOUR ACTION STEP TODAY
Go to Apprenticeship.gov, select "Find Apprenticeships," and search your zip code for one electrical, welding, or manufacturing program. Save the contact info and send your first inquiry.
Resources worth your time
WORKFORCE MICRO-CREDENTIALS
TechCred
Ohio's TechCred program reimburses employers up to $2,000 per credential when workers complete approved short-term tech certifications. Ask your employer to apply.
Learn about TechCred
REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAYS
Find Apprenticeships
Get paid while you train for electrical, welding, and advanced manufacturing jobs hiring in your region.
Search apprenticeship openings →
Find apprenticeships
DIGITAL EQUITY & DEVICE ACCESS
Digital Inclusion Programs
State programs are expanding low-cost high-speed internet and hardware in urban and underserved neighborhoods.
Visit BroadbandOhioINTEGRATED ENGLISH & CAREER TRAINING
Learn English While You Train
Ohio's Aspire program pairs English classes (ESOL) with career training, so adult learners can build workplace English while working toward an industry credential. Look for free classes at community colleges, libraries, or vocational centers in your county.
Find a providerFOREIGN CREDENTIAL RECOGNITION
Unlock Your International Degree
Many skilled immigrants with degrees earned abroad work below their training. Nonprofits like Upwardly Global offer career coaching and guidance on credential review, U.S.-style resumes, and state licensing for work-authorized immigrants, refugees, and asylees.
Upwardly Global job seeker resources →
Get career coachingIMMIGRANT ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Building Local Enterprise
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and the Small Business Administration offer micro-loans, mentorship, and technical assistance for small business owners, including immigrant and refugee founders who may lack U.S. credit history.
Find SBA helpFor every community. Everywhere.
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