Barberton Wins EDA Grant to Strengthen Advanced Manufacturing Workforce

Barberton Wins EDA Grant to Strengthen Advanced Manufacturing Workforce

by | Sep 18, 2025 | Announcements, Economic Development

Barberton Community Foundation Receives Federal Grant to Study Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Training

EDA Planning Grant Funds Feasibility Study for Comprehensive Workforce Training Needs, Supporting Regional Economic Development

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.

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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.

Julie and Jayson Humble Bright Beginnings Endowed Scholarship

Julie and Jayson Humble Bright Beginnings Endowed Scholarship

by | Jul 15, 2025 | Announcements, Scholarships

Bright Beginnings in Barberton

Announcing the Julie and Jayson Bright Beginnings Endowed Scholarship Fund

Barberton Community Foundation is proud to announce the Julie & Jayson Humble Bright Beginnings Endowed Scholarship Fund, a first‑of‑its‑kind resource that removes financial barriers to high‑quality preschool for Barberton families.

Created by Barberton High School alumnus Jayson Humble (’98) and his wife, Julie, the scholarship reflects the couple’s conviction that every child deserves a strong educational start. Jayson serves as Vice President of Engineering, Marketing, and Sales at Alpha Technologies, while Julie teaches AP Psychology and Government at Twinsburg High School.

“The chance to learn in a nurturing preschool changed the trajectory of my own life,” Jayson said. “We want Barberton kids to have that same opportunity—no matter their family’s income.”

Julie and Jayson Humble with their two daughters
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Why Bright Beginnings Matter

State assessments show that only 22.8 percent of Barberton children enter kindergarten demonstrating readiness. Many families are priced out of preschool or contend with long waitlists and part‑day programs that don’t align with work schedules. Children often transition to kindergarten from more than 20 different daycare and childcare settings in the  Barberton area, leaving many without consistent exposure to curriculum-based structured early learning.

Data show when Barberton children do gain access to high‑quality preschool, they outperform their peers, proving that the right start makes a big difference. By covering tuition and required fees, the Humble Bright Beginnings Scholarship closes the affordability gap and delivers the early‑learning experiences proven to boost confidence, curiosity, and K-12 academic performance.

“Early childhood education is one of the hidden or overlooked opportunities when it comes to helping kids and building community,” said Josh Gordon, Executive Director of Barberton Community Foundation. “The Humbles’ generosity creates a gift that will initially make a difference for one student, but overtime, its impact will grow.  

“Their decision to invest in early childhood ensures every Barberton child can write a similar success story—one that begins with promise and potential,” Gordon added. “The Foundation is delighted to be their partner in impacting so many lives, starting now.”

About the Humble Family & Their Vision

Julie and Jayson Humble know what it means to persevere and to pave a new path forward. Their lives—rooted in education, grit, and a shared belief in the power of early support—reflect the very spirit behind their scholarship.

Jayson Humble, a 1998 Barberton High School graduate, grew up in a large household where financial resources were scarce. His early work experiences shaped who he became—and taught him the value of grit, hard work, and opportunity. Today, he’s a successful leader in business, working as the Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Alpha Technologies.

While establishing the scholarship, Humble said, “The people who’ve had a little luck owe it to give back. That’s why we’re taking this first step and starting a fund at Barberton Community Foundation. They’re providing the structure, the vehicle to achieve our goal.”

Julie Humble, a Hudson native, was raised in a home that championed early childhood education. Her mother, Linda Sucheski, founded a preschool in 1979, instilling in Julie a lifelong appreciation for the importance of the early years. Today, Julie teaches AP Psychology, Sociology, and Government at Twinsburg High School, and together she and Jayson are raising two daughters, Claire and Adeline. Their shared values around education, opportunity, and early learning became the foundation for their decision to give back.

Together, the Humbles envision a future where every Barberton child arrives in kindergarten confident and ready to thrive. Their immediate goal is to erase cost as a barrier to quality preschool for one child. Long‑term, they hope the fund will inspire other donors, grow into a community‑wide early‑learning resource, and lift Barberton’s readiness rate well beyond 22 percent.

“This isn’t just tuition assistance,” Julie Humble explained. “It’s an investment in Barberton’s future leaders, innovators, and neighbors. When we lift up our youngest learners, the entire community rises with them.”

How to Apply

The Julie & Jayson Humble Bright Beginnings Endowed Scholarship application opens July 31, 2025 and remains open through the month of August. Interested applicants are encouraged to read the FAQ before applying. Families can complete the online form at barbertoncf.org/goapply.

 For assistance, please call 330-745-5995, or visit the Foundation’s office at 460 W. Paige Ave. Barberton, OH 44203.

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JobsOhio Grant Propels Workforce Training Center Feasibility Study in Barberton

JobsOhio Grant Propels Workforce Training Center Feasibility Study in Barberton

by | Jan 27, 2025 | Announcements, Economic Development

Media Advisory

JobsOhio Grant Propels Workforce Training Center Feasibility Study in Barberton

Barberton Community Foundation (BCF), in partnership with the City of Barberton, Barberton City Schools, Greater Akron Chamber, and Ilene Shapiro, Summit County Executive, is pleased to announce the receipt of a JobsOhio planning grant to explore the development of a transformative Workforce Training Center in Barberton, Ohio.

The JobsOhio grant, with matching funds provided by BCF, will fund a comprehensive redevelopment real estate study, including site due diligence, preliminary design, project feasibility and proforma analysis for a state-of-the-art training center. This initiative underscores BCF’s commitment to fostering workforce development to enable residents to upskill and pursue higher paying jobs while providing critical support to area businesses who need to build their workforce in key growth industries such as defense manufacturing and polymer science. Barberton has a unique location, strong partnerships, and an uncommon set of resources that make it an ideal community for a workforce training center.

A Catalyst for Regional Growth

The proposed Workforce Training Center is envisioned as a hub for hands-on, industry-specific training to meet the evolving needs of high-demand sectors like defense manufacturing and polymers. Positioned near Barberton’s downtown, the center aims to enhance the local economy by preparing a skilled workforce, attracting investment, and driving innovation in critical growth sectors of the national and local economy.

“This grant from JobsOhio represents a pivotal moment for Barberton,” said Josh Gordon, Executive Director of Barberton Community Foundation. “It validates our city’s potential to lead in workforce development, and we’re eager to collaborate with our partners to turn this vision into reality.”

Key Details:

  • Grant Purpose: Feasibility study for a Workforce Training Center
  • Location: Confidential
  • Partners: City of Barberton, Barberton City Schools, Greater Akron Chamber, Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro
  • Consultant: Downing Advisors
  • Completion Date: March 2025

Addressing Workforce Needs

As part of Ohio’s broader effort to bridge the skills gap, this project aligns with the Polymer Industry Cluster’s workforce priorities and the region’s economic development goals. With over 1,400 polymer companies in Northeast Ohio and an aging workforce, the center will provide hands-on training and certifications to prepare individuals for in-demand roles in polymers, manufacturing, and other key industries.

Background:

  • Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub: $51 million in federal funding and $31.25 million in state support.
  • Barberton PreK–12 Polymer Pathway: A collaborative program for student career readiness in high-growth fields.

 

Who/Contacts:

Josh Gordon, Executive Director – jgordon@barbertoncf.org
330-745-5995
Barberton Community Foundation
460 W. Paige Ave. Barberton, Ohio 44203