LISBON — The Columbiana County Career and Technical Center Customized Training Machining Program is accepting students for customized training for the 2026-27 school year.

The program’s success was highlighted during the most recent career center board of education meeting by Adult Education Machining Instructor Pete Beagle and Braden Bixler, who is a recent graduate of Beagle’s program.

According to their presentation, the program is designed to meet the evolving workforce needs of regional manufacturers.

“As a flexible, industry-driven program, this training model allows local companies to reskill and upskill their workforce while aligning directly with current machining and manufacturing standards,” they said.

The training is tailored to employer skill gaps and production demands and students can complete up to 13 National Institute for Metalworking Skills.

They said the program also offers industry-recognized credentials. All certifications offered in the program qualify for Ohio TechCred reimbursement, allowing employers to offset training costs.

Furthermore, the program provides hands-on, competency-based instruction, with students training on industry-relevant equipment with real world applications, according to the presentation.

The program also supports employee wage growth, increased productivity, and long-term workforce retention.

“This program is designed for employers. Whether a company is onboarding new employees, strengthening incumbent worker skills, or preparing for advanced manufacturing technologies, CCCTC provides structured, measurable outcomes tied to credential attainment,” Adult Education Director Jenna Fox said.

She added that the model has been especially impactful for regional employers seeking sustainable workforce pipelines, something that aligns closely with CCCTC’s broader commitment to workforce development and economic growth in Columbiana County.

Companies interested in enrolling employees for reskilling or upskilling opportunities should contact Heather Raidel by calling 330-643-9561 or email heather.raidel@ccctc.k12.oh.us

The CCCTC was awarded a $25,000 state grant in January to help expand the program.