Empowering Futures: Adult Education and Industry Collaboration in Southwest Ohio with Kim Gates

Click here to listen: https://otcs.alitu.com/episode/081fdbba-20f1-4f11-8c56-e2b9aa8337f3

In the final episode of Season One of the OTCs Podcast, Kim Gates, director of adult education at the Warren County Career Center, discusses the center's wide range of innovative initiatives and workforce development programs with host, Rachael Mann.

Situated uniquely between Cincinnati and Dayton, the Career Center offers seven comprehensive program pathways, including manufacturing, HVAC, welding, electrical power lines, cosmetology, EMS, and IT. Gates elaborates on a noteworthy and impactful program for incarcerated students, providing them with advanced manufacturing and robotics training designed to ease their reentry into the workforce and reduce recidivism. She emphasizes the Career Center's strong collaboration with local employers and industry partners to create responsive, customized training programs that align with realtime labor market needs. These partnerships ensure that students gain relevant skills that lead to wellpaying, sustainable jobs in their own communities.

Gates also highlights exciting plans for new program offerings, including cybersecurity, cloud computing, and industrial electrical technician tracks, aimed at addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in emerging tech and energy sectors. She encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds—ranging from high school seniors exploring post-graduation options to adults seeking career changes or upskilling opportunities—to consider career and technical education (CTE) as a smart, strategic investment in their future.

To learn more about Warren County Career Center, visit www.mywccc.org. For information about Ohio Technical Centers in your area, visit www.oacts.com or www.ohiotechnicalcenters.com.