Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) is creating opportunities for affordable higher education — and contributing to the future of the state’s workforce — by utilizing Ohio Work Ready Grant (OWRG) funding.

It provides grants to new and current students enrolled in academic programs that prepare them for in-demand careers. Eligible degree or certificate programs — including ones in healthcare, engineering and information technology (IT), to name a few — are determined by the governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation.

The OWRG gives monetary awards to any Ohio resident who seeks these critical occupations and demonstrates financial need. Students learn if they’re eligible by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the year in which the grant will be given.

As of this year, though, students in select programs need not even exhibit financial need. The OWRG’s newest iteration includes dedicated funding for technician-aligned academic programs, specifically ones leading to jobs in advanced manufacturing and engineering technology. Under the new structure, every student pursuing a career in one of these in-demand industries is considered for this grant — regardless of financial need — but they’re still required to file the FAFSA.

That carveout impacts students enrolled in COTC’s engineering technology, electrical engineering technology and electromechanical engineering technology associate degree programs, all of which have been defined as technician-aligned.

We see firsthand how financial support can change a student’s path,” said Faith Phillips, COTC’s director of student financial services. “The Ohio Work Ready Grant not only makes college more affordable, but it also opens doors for students to pursue meaningful careers in fields where Ohio needs them most.

COTC will apply these awards starting this summer semester, which begins on May 18. New students have until May 6 to apply for the summer semester.

Grants may be used to pay for tuition, fees and other education-related expenses. Learners can earn an award for a maximum of six semesters — the equivalent of three academic years. They can receive it for either part-time or full-time studies, and their yearly grant amount is based on number of credits taken. Visit this Ohio Department of Higher Education webpage for a full breakdown.

There is no special application for the OWRG program. Students are automatically considered if they enroll in an in-demand degree or certificate program at COTC and complete the FAFSA.

Just like the college’s three Promise programs, these efforts to facilitate OWRG funding showcase COTC’s commitment to making high-quality higher education more accessible to its community. Not only is COTC continuing to serve and support its three-county region, it’s also consequentially contributing to the economic future of the state.

The Ohio Work Ready Grant is helping us remove barriers for students entering critical engineering and technical fields,” said John M. Berry, PhD, president of COTC. “These programs are not just educational pathways — they’re direct pipelines into careers that sustain our communities and strengthen Ohio’s economy. We are proud to play a role in building that workforce.