JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Ashtabula County Technical and Career Campus (A-Tech) Business Advisory Council (BAC) has earned a two-star rating in the Business Education Leaders Awards for Outstanding Business Advisory Council.
The Ohio Department of Education and Labor (DEW) has recognized 39 of the state’s 85 business advisory committees for their outstanding contributions to fostering collaboration between schools and local industries.
The A-Tech BAC is made up of representatives from area schools, businesses and workforce development-focused organizations that meet quarterly to explore and define opportunities for student success in all districts in Ashtabula County.
The schools and Educational Service Centers (ESCs) of Ashtabula Area City, Buckeye Local, Conneaut Area City, Geneva Area City, Grand Valley Local, Jefferson Area Local and Pymatanning Valley Local are members of the A-Tech BAC.
“Ohio recognizes the important role that business advisory councils play in fostering strong partnerships that benefit students across the state,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in a prepared statement. “These councils serve as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world experiences, creating a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for their future careers.”
“This will help businesses create a local talent pipeline and help more students become career ready without taking on college debt,” said Lt. Governor Jon Husted.
“Partnering with local businesses is essential to providing meaningful experiences for students across the county,” said A-Tech President Scott Urdiga, who co-chairs the BAC with Area 19 Workforce Committee Executive Director Craig Celnick.
Patrick Arcaro, executive director of the Ashtabula County Department of Employment and Family Services, said the goal is to ensure the education system can meet the region’s workforce needs.
“We strive to bridge the gap between education and industry and ensure students are well prepared for the challenges of the local workforce,” he said.
The BAC meets quarterly, and those in the business community interested in joining this impactful effort are encouraged to contact A-Tech at 440-576-6015 or email scott.wludyga@atech.edu for more information.
