Jergens, Inc. and
CEVEC Job Training Program
Yesterday we traveled to Cleveland for a ribbon cutting
ceremony celebrating the job training partnership between Jergens, Inc.,
Mayfield City Schools, and Cuyahoga East Vocational Education Consortium
(CEVEC). This innovative program
provides onsite training for students with disabilities in advanced
manufacturing and a path to a career in this exciting in-demand field.
The ceremony took place in Jergens’ state of the art 130,000 square foot facility in Cleveland which also serves as the classroom for the students participating in the program. Jack Schron, Jr., President of Jergens, spoke, as a third generation business owner, about the importance of connecting the thriving manufacturing industry in Cleveland with local education and the community.
I was excited to speak as both an agency director and as a
father about the importance of connecting business and education with career
planning and for training students with disabilities. Ohio has recognized that we must have earlier
conversations with our children about careers and employment and we must align
the education system to provide guidance and training that will position them
to explore, and succeed in, their chosen career path.
The CEVEC Jergens partnership, which connects students with a disability with business and education, is a perfect example of the type of relationships we are seeking to facilitate here at OOD. It is also in alignment with the new partnership between OOD and the Ohio Department of Education focused on transition youth. This partnership will involve OOD counselors having a stronger presence in schools and districts across Ohio in order to assist students with disabilities in transitioning from school to employment.
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 Jack Schron, Presdient of Jergens, Inc., at the ribbon cutting on Thursday
The importance of this approach was noted by those attending
the ribbon cutting. In addition to Jack Schron and Saevar Thodarson, Quality
Assurance Manager at Jergens, State Senator Kenny Yuko, Dr. Keith Kelly, Superintendent
of Mayfield City Schools, and representatives from the offices of Governor John
Kasich, Senator Rob Portman, and Senator Sherrod Brown offered remarks.
After the ribbon cutting, we were able to tour the
impressive Jergens facilities. The focus
on quality, precision, and lean manufacturing was clear in everything they do,
as was their commitment to workforce development and a clean, safe work
environment. Advance manufacturing is
alive and well in Northeast Ohio. What a
great opportunity these students will have to learn a trade at an international
leader in the industry.
The CEVEC mission statement of Educate-Empower-Employ
perfectly defines this program and the focus on transition youth moving
forward. Thanks again to everyone who
made yesterday’s event such a success. I can’t wait to see this program succeed
and expand.
At their 2015 Retreat (August 5th and 6th),
the Commissioners selected this year’s award winners. Stephanie Ravak of Columbus Goodwill was selected
as the recipient of the Ben Bonanno Disability Advocate Award which recognizes
individuals who have made a significant impact on improving the employment
possibilities of Ohioans with disabilities consistent with OOD’s mission. Stephanie is a tireless advocate for students
with intellectual disabilities receiving quality work experience and job
opportunities by mentoring, coaching and teaching.
The Commissioners also selected Jenny Ferguson of the Hancock
County Board of Developmental Disabilities as the recipient of the Denise
Joanne Weisenborn Service Award. This
award recognizes individuals who provide outstanding services to Ohioans with
disabilities to make their participation in society more meaningful. Jenny takes time and listens to everyone with
a philosophy based on exceptional customer service for each individual. By supporting community integration
opportunities, including employment, she has supported each person as they seek
to achieve their goals, earn a living, make friends and give back to the community.
Both individuals will be recognized at the Commissioners’
October 21, 2015 meeting in Columbus.
Congratulations to Stephanie and Jenny!
 Commission Chair Jacquie Romer-Sensky and Commissioner Jack Licate participate in a mentoring session
Mentoring is a critical part of leadership development at the
Youth Leadership Forum (YLF). Attendees were able to receive advice and
feedback from mentors in a wide variety of careers ranging from veterinary
science, janitorial, food services, graphic design, public service, business, legal
and communications.
This year, YLF was fortunate to have both OOD Commissioners and
Consumer Advisory Council (CAC) members participate in the mentoring program
for YLF and offer their wide-ranging perspectives to delegates.
Thanks again to the Commission and CAC members for making
YLF even better in 2015.
 Juanita Hill, CAC Statewide Member, Dr. Carolyn Peters, CAC Chair, and Shonda Causey, ex-officio CAC member,
Individuals in Job Ready Status* Statewide: 3,861
(For larger map and county details please click here)
*Job Ready Status: Have received Vocational Rehabilitation services and are ready and seeking employment.
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