Fairfield County Workforce Center Receives $841,000 in State Capital Budget Funding for Healthcare Training Programs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 13, 2026
Fairfield County Workforce Center Receives $841,000 in State Capital Budget Funding for Healthcare Training Programs
Carroll, OH – The Fairfield County Workforce Center has secured state capital budget funding to strengthen healthcare workforce training programs. Included in Ohio’s FY 2027–FY 2028 Capital Budget, the Workforce Center will receive $750,000 for a new Radiology Lab, with funding awarded through Hocking College, and $91,000 to complete the existing Respiratory Therapy Lab, with funding awarded through Ohio University Athens.
The investments reflect Ohio leaders’ continued commitment to workforce development and healthcare education, ensuring students have access to high-quality training opportunities that align with the needs of regional healthcare providers.
The new Radiology Lab, which will be housed at the Fairfield County Workforce Center, will provide students with hands-on experience using industry-relevant equipment and technology, preparing them for careers in diagnostic imaging and related healthcare fields. The $750,000 in funding will support the development of a modern learning environment designed to help address the growing demand for qualified radiologic technologists.
An additional allocation of $91,000 will help complete the Workforce Center’s Respiratory Therapy Lab, enhancing training capabilities for students pursuing respiratory care through Ohio University. The completed lab will further support workforce readiness in a field that remains critical to Ohio’s healthcare system. Ohio University’s Board of Trustees approved the new program at its April meeting and is awaiting approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education, with a plan to begin the program in spring 2027. Ohio University is also in the process of seeking CoARC accreditation for the respiratory care program; however, the university can provide no assurance that accreditation will be granted by CoARC.
“These investments are exactly the type of strategic workforce development initiatives Ohio’s capital budget is designed to support,” said State Senator Tim Schaffer. “Healthcare employers across our region continue to face workforce shortages, and these training labs will help create a strong pipeline of skilled professionals while providing students with access to rewarding, high-demand careers close to home. I am excited to see this money benefitting local Fairfield County residents in achieving their career goals.”
State Representative Jeff LaRe emphasized the importance of aligning education and workforce needs, stating “The Fairfield County Workforce Center has become a model for how education, higher education partners, and industry can work together to meet workforce demands,” LaRe said. “This funding will expand opportunities for students while strengthening the healthcare workforce that serves Fairfield County and surrounding communities.”
State Representative Kevin Miller, highlighted the long-term impact of the investment.
“Investing in workforce training is investing in Ohio’s future,” Miller said. “These projects will provide students with the hands-on experience and technical skills needed to succeed in healthcare careers while helping ensure our communities have access to a highly trained workforce. I was proud to support these investments because they will create opportunities for students and strengthen our regional economy for years to come.”
“We are immensely grateful to our state leaders, who understand the unique needs of Fairfield County and continuously demonstrate their commitment to making our community a great place to live, work and raise a family,” said Fairfield County Commissioner Dave Levacy. “A strong workforce means a strong future, and our local leaders know this, understand it, and work tirelessly to address it.”
The funding is part of Ohio’s broader capital budget strategy, which includes significant investments in workforce training, higher education, infrastructure, and community development projects across the state. The budget recognizes the important role that technical training centers, educational institutions, and community partnerships play in building Ohio’s future workforce.
The Fairfield County Workforce Center works closely with higher education partners, including Hocking College and Ohio University, to deliver career-focused training programs that connect students with in-demand occupations and support the economic vitality of the region.
For more information about the Fairfield County Workforce Center, visit FairfieldCountyWorkforce.com.
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For media inquiries, contact Temple Montanez at temple@krilecommunications.com
