September 18, 2025 BARBERTON, OH – Barberton Community Foundation has been awarded a Planning and Local Technical Assistance grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for establishing advanced manufacturing workforce training opportunities in Barberton.
The study will examine the development of a multi-component training system designed to address critical skills gaps in advanced manufacturing while supporting local and regional economic revitalization. The results of the study will define the growing demand for skilled workers in polymer technology, defense and energy manufacturing, and other advanced manufacturing sectors.
Congresswoman Emilia Sykes praised the award, noting its importance for both local residents and the state’s economy.
“Ohio’s 13th Congressional District has a rich history of manufacturing, and this workforce development project will help ensure that legacy in Barberton for generations to come. It will make certain that those who grow up in Northeast Ohio have the education, skills, and job opportunities to build their career right here at home,” said Rep. Sykes. “I am proud to be a long-time supporter of the Barberton Community Foundation and other local businesses and organizations working to make this project a reality.”
U.S. Senator Jon Husted (R-OH) shared his support for the project.
“Northeast Ohio is critical for the state’s manufacturing industry and is one of the most robust polymer manufacturing sectors in the nation. I am proud that my work as U.S. Senator, and formerly as Lt. Governor, continues to bring businesses, educators, and communities together to solve our greatest workforce challenges,” said Senator Jon Husted.
With strong federal support in place, Barberton Community Foundation Executive Director Josh Gordon highlighted what this grant means on the ground in Barberton, a city with a proud manufacturing history, and how it will guide workforce opportunities.
“Our community is proud of our history of hard work in manufacturing, and this grant for a workforce study will help us identify the right career opportunities that are in demand in the present and in the future, for our residents, and for anyone in the region seeking to elevate their career pathways,” said Josh Gordon.
The feasibility study will specifically explore three core areas of workforce development:
- Advanced Manufacturing Training: Exploring a purpose-built facility providing specialized training for precision manufacturing, welding engineering, and advanced manufacturing processes.
- Polymer Technology Careers: Training workers in advanced materials manufacturing and polymer science applications.
- AI and Advanced Materials Innovation: Developing workforce capabilities in artificial intelligence applications for materials science, predictive manufacturing, and smart manufacturing systems.
“Strong partnerships between industry, education, and community organizations are essential for building the skilled workforce our manufacturing base and business community requires,” said Gordon. “The feasibility study will help us develop a comprehensive plan that addresses both immediate workforce needs while informing long-term community and economic development opportunities.”
Echoing the emphasis on collaboration, Dr. Hans Dorfi, Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer of the Polymer Industry Cluster, noted how Barberton’s efforts complement regional innovation.
“The Barberton feasibility study aligns directly with the strategic priorities of the Polymer Industry Cluster,” Dorfi said. “As we work to scale innovation and growth in the industry, collaboration between education, government, and business leaders will be essential to advancing our regional goals and securing long-term economic success for Northeast Ohio.”
The study will analyze market demand (including national, regional, and local unmet workforce development needs), infrastructure requirements, financial sustainability, and implementation timelines. Upon completion, the findings will inform applications for construction and implementation funding to establish the facilities required to sustainably conduct comprehensive workforce training programs.
The long-term outcomes of this initial project are expected to create high quality jobs and invite as much as $50 million in private investment. The initiative aligns with federal priorities for strengthening manufacturing capabilities and supporting economic development in distressed communities.
Barberton, and surrounding Summit County, have experienced economic challenges following the decline of traditional manufacturing industries. The proposed workforce training center represents a strategic opportunity to further strengthen the local economy while addressing critical manufacturing workforce needs.
Barberton Community Foundation will partner with regional educational institutions, local government, and industry partners to conduct the feasibility study and develop implementation plans.
###
About the Economic Development Administration
The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that promotes innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy.
About Barberton Community Foundation
Established in 1996, Barberton Community Foundation has awarded over 8,500 grants and scholarships totaling more than $110 million since its inception. The Foundation strives to improve the quality of life for Barberton residents by providing leadership on vital issues, fostering collaboration, and creating a legacy of giving to do good. The Foundation strengthens the community for current and future generations by proactively directing its grant dollars to the community’s greatest needs.
To learn more about Barberton Community Foundation visit www.barbertoncf.org or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/barbertoncommunityfoundation.
