Staff report
United Way of Greater Cincinnati has announced the Year III grantees of the Future of Manufacturing Fund, established in partnership with the GE Aerospace Foundation. Six organizations, including one from Northern Kentucky, were selected for their leadership in addressing critical gaps in the advanced manufacturing workforce and their proven, innovative approaches to scaling impact.
“It’s energizing to see employers, educators and community partners working together to create clear pathways to good careers,” said Moira Weir, President and CEO, United Way of Greater Cincinnati. “As this year’s grantees build on progress from previous years, they’re preparing more people for opportunities in a growing industry and helping build the skilled workforce our region needs to thrive.”
Gateway Community & Technical College was among the grantees. The grant is for expanding welding training capacity for high school students and adult learners.
Other recipients were: Advanced Manufacturing Industry Partnership’s Manufacturing Education Expansion Initiative; Cincinnati State, LEAD Training, Miami University Hamilton, and UC Clermont College.
The Future of Manufacturing Fund, established by the GE Aerospace Foundation in 2024 through a $1 million grant, is designed to expand high-quality workforce development to meet rising demand in the aviation and advanced manufacturing sectors. In Years I and II combined, the partnership helped expose 13,255 individuals to advanced manufacturing careers.
Year III builds on earlier investments in career awareness, credentialing and employer partnerships by helping more people complete advanced manufacturing training, transition into employment, internships, or apprenticeships, and build long-term careers in the advanced manufacturing industry.
“The impact we’ve seen through the Future of Manufacturing Fund over the last two years is a testament to the power of community partnerships and a shared commitment to skill development,” said Meghan Thurlow, GE Aerospace Foundation President. “As we begin Year III, we’re excited to support leaders like these grantees that are opening doors to opportunity and helping more people build rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.”