New Locations for 2026!
Are you a graduating high school senior looking to gain some valuable skills that can lead to immediate employment? Are you hoping to go to college at some point but want to work first and save some money? The GRIT Project has a program for you!
The GRIT Summer Programs aim to empower upcoming and graduating high school seniors by offering workforce credential certifications and internship/job placement opportunities. Our goal is to provide students with short-term training and certified workforce credentials that align with sought-after industries, enabling them to be well-prepared for additional postsecondary education and training or a direct transition into the workforce.
How to Get Started:
Step 1: Fill Out the Interest Form
Getting started is easy! First, click the button below and complete the GRIT Summer Programs Interest Form. This lets us know which program you’re interested in and how to contact you. Once you submit the form, keep an eye on your email, this is how we’ll stay in touch with you about next steps.
Step 2: Complete the Future Plans Assessment
Next, we’ll check to see if you’ve completed your Future Plans assessment. This assessment helps us learn more about your interests, strengths, and career goals. If you haven’t completed it yet, no worries, we’ll email you with instructions on how to get started.
Step 3: One-on-One Coaching Session
After your assessment, you’ll complete a one‑on‑one coaching session. This meeting is all about you! A coach will help you talk through your goals, interests, and next steps. If you still need to schedule your coaching session, we’ll reach out by email to help you set it up.
Step 4: Program Check
After your assessment and coaching are complete, we’ll review the program you selected to make sure it’s a great fit for you. Our goal is to set you up for success and connect you with the opportunity that matches you best. You’ll receive an email once this step is confirmed.
Step 5: Training Provider Link
Once everything is approved, we’ll send you a link to your training provider. This is where you’ll follow the program’s specific enrollment or onboarding steps. Some programs have limited seats, so receiving your link is an important milestone, but it’s not the finish line just yet. Stay engaged, check your email, and know that our team will be right there to support you along the way!
Ashtabula County Technical & Career Campus
Program Dates:
Aviation Academy: June 10-July 1
Welding Academy: June 8-July 2
Healthcare Academy: June 1-12 (1st session) & June 22- July 3 (2nd session)
Application Dates:
Rolling application, no deadline set at this time
Locations:
Aviation Academy: 2 Locations Jefferson, OH & Middlefield, OH
Welding Academy: Jefferson, OH
Healthcare Academy: Vienna, OH
This is a commuter program. Plan to attend in person each day.
Aviation Academy: June 10-July 1
Welding Academy: June 8-July 2
Healthcare Academy: June 1-12 (1st session) & June 22- July 3 (2nd session)
Application Dates:
Rolling application, no deadline set at this time
Locations:
Aviation Academy: 2 Locations Jefferson, OH & Middlefield, OH
Welding Academy: Jefferson, OH
Healthcare Academy: Vienna, OH
This is a commuter program. Plan to attend in person each day.
Is a three-week intensive course that will give students a dynamic introduction to aviation careers and certifications. After completing their line-of-sight ground school training, students will take a test to assess their eligibility for line-of-sight certification. Students will also be provided Part 107 (Unmanned Aerial Systems) training and be eligible to participate in the Part 107 examination. They will also visit the Pittsburgh Institute of Aviation and Kent State University Aviation School to learn from leading professionals and experience real-world aviation settings. Daily guest speakers will present on diverse careers, giving students insights into fields such as piloting, maintenance, air traffic control, and more. Students will be given the opportunity to fly a glider twice and participate in the young eagles program.
Certification you will earn: After completing their line-of-sight ground school training, students will take a test to assess their eligibility for line-of-sight certification. Students will also be provided Part 107 (Unmanned Aerial Systems) training and be eligible to participate in the Part 107 examination.
Other Important Info:
Dates: June 10-July 1 (Monday-Friday)
Sundays will be rain days for flights. Saturdays will be flight days.
2 Locations: Jefferson, OH and Middlefield, OH
Must be 16 or older
Certification you will earn: After completing their line-of-sight ground school training, students will take a test to assess their eligibility for line-of-sight certification. Students will also be provided Part 107 (Unmanned Aerial Systems) training and be eligible to participate in the Part 107 examination.
Other Important Info:
Dates: June 10-July 1 (Monday-Friday)
Sundays will be rain days for flights. Saturdays will be flight days.
2 Locations: Jefferson, OH and Middlefield, OH
Must be 16 or older
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program is a short-term healthcare training program that prepares individuals to provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses. Students learn essential skills such as assisting with daily living activities (bathing, dressing, feeding), monitoring vital signs, infection control, and effective communication with patients and healthcare teams. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, and upon completion, participants are eligible to take a state certification exam to become a licensed CNA.
Certification you will earn: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Other Important Information:
Dates: June 1-12 (1st session) & June 22- July 3 (2nd session)
Location: Vienna, OH
Must be 16 years or older
Certification you will earn: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Other Important Information:
Dates: June 1-12 (1st session) & June 22- July 3 (2nd session)
Location: Vienna, OH
Must be 16 years or older
The Welding Academy is designed to equip students with foundational welding skills and industry experience. Held at A-Tech, the academy will blend classroom instruction with hands-on training, enabling students to complete at least one 30-hour welding certificate. Throughout the course, students will learn essential welding techniques and safety practices, gaining the technical skills needed to begin a career in the field. Instruction will focus on critical areas such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding, as well as metal preparation and cutting. Additionally, students will practice troubleshooting and gain insight into industry best practices.
Certifications you will earn: Stick & Mig
Other Important Information:
Dates: June 8-July 2
Location: Jefferson, OH
Must be 16 years or older
Certifications you will earn: Stick & Mig
Other Important Information:
Dates: June 8-July 2
Location: Jefferson, OH
Must be 16 years or older
Belmont College
Program Dates: June 1-18
Flooring program (1 week, dates TBD)
Application Dates:
Rolling application, no deadline set at this time
Location: St. Clairsville, OH
This is a commuter program. Plan to attend in person each day.
Flooring program (1 week, dates TBD)
Application Dates:
Rolling application, no deadline set at this time
Location: St. Clairsville, OH
This is a commuter program. Plan to attend in person each day.
This hands-on HVAC/R summer experience introduces rising high-school seniors to high-demand careers that keep buildings, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, and data centers running. Students explore HVAC/R systems—climate control, ventilation, and refrigeration—while gaining exposure to installation, diagnostics, controls, and emerging technologies. Training is aligned to real workplace expectations and supported by industry partners, providing a strong technical foundation and a clear entry point into HVAC/R pathways through Belmont College.
Credentials you will earn: ESCO HVAC Excellence | EPA 608 | Recovery and Evacuation
Credentials you will earn: ESCO HVAC Excellence | EPA 608 | Recovery and Evacuation
This immersive summer program introduces students to welding, fabrication, and advanced manufacturing careers. Training takes place in Belmont College’s welding facility, where students practice foundational skills such as Stick (SMAW) welding and torch cutting while being introduced to automation and robotic welding concepts. Instruction is connected to modern manufacturing environments and leads to an entry-level credential and exploration of education, apprenticeship, and employment pathways.
Credentials you will earn: American Welding Society D1.1 Certification | Builds toward MIG I & TIG I instruction
Credentials you will earn: American Welding Society D1.1 Certification | Builds toward MIG I & TIG I instruction
This hands-on workshop introduces students to heavy equipment and diesel technology careers supporting construction, transportation, and public works. Training occurs in Belmont College’s Heavy Equipment Technician facility, where students learn how modern equipment is inspected, diagnosed, and repaired. Participants work with professional-grade machinery while earning an industry-recognized credential and exploring career pathways with regional employers.
Credentials you will earn: National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence Brake Systems | Electronic Systems | Diesel Engines
Credentials you will earn: National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence Brake Systems | Electronic Systems | Diesel Engines
This intensive workshop introduces students to data and analytics careers through hands-on, project-based learning. Participants learn how data is created, cleaned, and analyzed using Excel while exploring how data supports artificial intelligence and large language models. Students earn a verified Excel credential and build foundational skills for further exploration of data, analytics, and technology-driven careers.
Credentials you will earn: Microsoft Excel + AI-aligned micro-credential
Credentials you will earn: Microsoft Excel + AI-aligned micro-credential
This immersive workshop introduces professional floor covering as a skilled trade with clear employment pathways. Students train directly with a Master Installer, learning industry-standard installation techniques and the precision required for professional work. Participants earn an International Training Certificate and gain access to job placement opportunities through the World Floor Covering Association’s Jump Start program.
Important Info: this is a 1 week program. Exact dates TBD.
Certificate you will earn: International Training Cert through the World Floor Covering Association
Important Info: this is a 1 week program. Exact dates TBD.
Certificate you will earn: International Training Cert through the World Floor Covering Association
East Palestine High School
Program Dates: June 15- July 3rd (Monday-Friday)
Application Dates:
East Palestine HS Application Due: May 15th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 22nd
Location: East Palestine, OH
This is a commuter Program. Plan to attend in person each day.
Application Dates:
East Palestine HS Application Due: May 15th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 22nd
Location: East Palestine, OH
This is a commuter Program. Plan to attend in person each day.
Students will explore the fundamentals of modern manufacturing through hands-on lab experiences and real-world problem solving. This course builds skills in safety, tools, measurement, and machine operations while introducing industry practices like lean manufacturing. Students can earn multiple certifications and develop the technical and professional skills needed for high-demand careers in the manufacturing industry.
Credentials you will earn: OSHA 10, CPR / First Aid, Forklift Operator Certification, Six Sigma Yellow Belt, Mobile Elevated Work Platform (Man Lift), Tool Identification & Safety, PPE & Safety Compliance
Other Important Information: You must be 18 years of age and hold a valid driver’s license to obtain your forklift certification (not a requirement to participate in this program).
Credentials you will earn: OSHA 10, CPR / First Aid, Forklift Operator Certification, Six Sigma Yellow Belt, Mobile Elevated Work Platform (Man Lift), Tool Identification & Safety, PPE & Safety Compliance
Other Important Information: You must be 18 years of age and hold a valid driver’s license to obtain your forklift certification (not a requirement to participate in this program).
This program prepares students for entry-level healthcare careers through a combination of online learning, skills labs, and clinical experiences. Students will gain hands-on training in patient care, safety, and emergency response while working toward earning their Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential. Ideal for students interested in nursing or healthcare careers.
Credential you will earn: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Other Important Information: Age Requirement: Must be 17 years or older by June 15th
Credential you will earn: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Other Important Information: Age Requirement: Must be 17 years or older by June 15th
Students will develop essential workplace and customer service skills used in hospitality, retail, and service industries. Through interactive simulations and real-world projects, participants will learn communication, sales strategies, and professionalism while earning industry-recognized credentials that translate directly to employment opportunities.
Credentials you will earn: RISE Up Retail Industry Fundamentals, RISE Up Customer Service & Sales, CPR / First Aid, Stop the Bleed, Workplace Readiness Micro-Credentials, & Hospitality Safety Certifications
Credentials you will earn: RISE Up Retail Industry Fundamentals, RISE Up Customer Service & Sales, CPR / First Aid, Stop the Bleed, Workplace Readiness Micro-Credentials, & Hospitality Safety Certifications
This course introduces students to the fast-growing field of IT and cybersecurity. Students will learn how to troubleshoot devices, support users, manage systems, and protect data from cyber threats. Through hands-on labs and guided instruction, participants will prepare for industry certification while building skills for careers in technology and IT support.
Credential you will earn: Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST): IT Support
Credential you will earn: Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST): IT Support
Hocking College
Program Dates: May 31 -June 17
Application Dates:
Hocking Application Due: May 8th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 13th
Location: Nelsonville, OH
This is a residential program. Students will stay in the dorms at Hocking College and will be provided with room and board + meals. Training will be held during the day M-F, however some evening and weekend projects maybe required.
Application Dates:
Hocking Application Due: May 8th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 13th
Location: Nelsonville, OH
This is a residential program. Students will stay in the dorms at Hocking College and will be provided with room and board + meals. Training will be held during the day M-F, however some evening and weekend projects maybe required.
The Summer Film Workshop is a three-week, immersive residential workforce training program
led by Hocking College and hosted on its Nelsonville campus. Designed for rising and
graduating high school seniors, the program prepares students for entry-level roles and continued
education in media production, digital communications, and nonprofit storytelling through
hands-on, field-based instruction. Participants engage in the full production cycle—story
development, filming, editing, and presentation—while building portfolio-ready work that
reflects Appalachian place, culture, and lived experience. The workshop emphasizes real-world
production practices, professional collaboration, and industry-aligned expectations, positioning
students for direct workforce entry, internships, or postsecondary pathways in the arts, media,
and communications fields.
Credential you will earn: C4 – Canon Cinema Camera Certification (This Credential is Certified through Hocking College)
Other Important Information: Must be 16 years or older
led by Hocking College and hosted on its Nelsonville campus. Designed for rising and
graduating high school seniors, the program prepares students for entry-level roles and continued
education in media production, digital communications, and nonprofit storytelling through
hands-on, field-based instruction. Participants engage in the full production cycle—story
development, filming, editing, and presentation—while building portfolio-ready work that
reflects Appalachian place, culture, and lived experience. The workshop emphasizes real-world
production practices, professional collaboration, and industry-aligned expectations, positioning
students for direct workforce entry, internships, or postsecondary pathways in the arts, media,
and communications fields.
Credential you will earn: C4 – Canon Cinema Camera Certification (This Credential is Certified through Hocking College)
Other Important Information: Must be 16 years or older
Shawnee State University (Bear Tracks)
Program Dates: May 31 – June 18
Application Dates:
SSU Application Due: May 15th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 19th
Location: Portsmouth, OH
This is a residential program. Students will stay in the dorms at Shawnee State University and will be provided with room and board + meals. Training will be held during the day M-F, however some evening and weekend projects maybe required.
Application Dates:
SSU Application Due: May 15th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 19th
Location: Portsmouth, OH
This is a residential program. Students will stay in the dorms at Shawnee State University and will be provided with room and board + meals. Training will be held during the day M-F, however some evening and weekend projects maybe required.
Prepare for a career in business by understanding ways the most popular SM platforms interact and engage with users, identifying techniques an organization can use to leverage social media presence to build meaningful relationships with key audiences, and evaluating the success or failure of SM presence based on basic measures of engagement.
This entrepreneurship preparation portion of the program is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills and tools to start their own businesses. Participants will receive training in an entrepreneurial mindset to foster resilience, creativity, and opportunity recognition—key traits for successful business ownership.
As part of the program, they’ll earn certificates in graphic design for branding and marketing, and AI for Business for efficient business operations. In addition to technical skills, the program includes a valuable mentorship opportunity where participants connect with established entrepreneurs in their chosen fields, allowing for personalized guidance and networking.
With this comprehensive approach, participants will leave with a strong foundation and practical resources to launch and grow their ventures confidently.
This entrepreneurship preparation portion of the program is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills and tools to start their own businesses. Participants will receive training in an entrepreneurial mindset to foster resilience, creativity, and opportunity recognition—key traits for successful business ownership.
As part of the program, they’ll earn certificates in graphic design for branding and marketing, and AI for Business for efficient business operations. In addition to technical skills, the program includes a valuable mentorship opportunity where participants connect with established entrepreneurs in their chosen fields, allowing for personalized guidance and networking.
With this comprehensive approach, participants will leave with a strong foundation and practical resources to launch and grow their ventures confidently.
This in-depth course will train you to become a phlebotomist, a medical professional trained to draw blood through venipuncture for testing, research, donations, and more. Gainful employment in the field of allied healthcare is within the arm’s reach. Hospitals, blood banks, and other medical facilities are continuously in need of experienced phlebotomists who carry proper training and certification. Clinical experiences are included in this track.
Credential you will earn: Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
Requirements: Must be 18 and have HS Diploma or GED
Credential you will earn: Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
Requirements: Must be 18 and have HS Diploma or GED
This three‑week summer program introduces students to the foundational concepts and hands‑on skills used across advanced manufacturing and engineering technology. Participants will engage in engineering technology foundations such as robotics and programming, circuits and electricity, 3D part design, and electromechanical systems using industry equipment such as robots and electromechanical trainers. Students will also practice applied manufacturing skills such as mechanical systems and 3D printing. The program includes exposure to industry safety and quality practices, opportunities to explore multiple engineering technology majors, and sessions with regional employers—particularly highlighting pathways leading to high‑demand roles in manufacturing in the region and across the state. This experience helps participants build technical aptitude, career awareness, and confidence in applied engineering and manufacturing fields.
Credentials you will earn: OSHA 10
Credentials you will earn: OSHA 10
Washington State College of Ohio
Program Dates: June 8 – July 1 (Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Application Dates:
WSCO Application due: May 20th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 25th
Location: Marietta, OH
This is a commuter program. Plan to attend in person each day.
Application Dates:
WSCO Application due: May 20th
Acceptance Letters go out: May 25th
Location: Marietta, OH
This is a commuter program. Plan to attend in person each day.
Build the skills to protect, create, and innovate in a digital world. Step into the fast-growing world of cybersecurity and digital technology in this hands-on summer experience. Students will explore how technology powers our everyday lives—and how to protect it—while gaining real-world skills that employers value. Through interactive labs and guided instruction, participants will develop foundational knowledge in cybersecurity, computer systems, artificial intelligence, and data science. Along the way, students will earn industry-recognized digital badges and credentials from Cisco and OpenEDG, helping them stand out in college and career pathways. Students in this pathway will: Learn how to stay safe and secure in a digital environment. Explore cybersecurity concepts and how to protect networks and data. Build foundational knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems. Discover emerging technologies like AI, data science, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Develop digital communication, collaboration, and content creation skills. This pathway is ideal for students interested in technology, cybersecurity, IT careers, or problem-solving in a digital world. No prior experience is required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn.
Credentials you will earn: Cisco Digital Awareness, Digital Safety & Security Awareness, Introduction to Cybersecurity, Introduction to Modern AI, Data Science, IoT, & Open EDG Digital Literacy
Credentials you will earn: Cisco Digital Awareness, Digital Safety & Security Awareness, Introduction to Cybersecurity, Introduction to Modern AI, Data Science, IoT, & Open EDG Digital Literacy
Gain the skills to succeed in high-demand industrial and manufacturing careers. Step into the world of modern manufacturing and learn the skills that keep industries running safely, efficiently, and with high quality. This hands-on summer experience introduces students to real-world manufacturing environments, safety practices, and process improvement strategies used by today’s leading companies. Through applied training and interactive instruction, students will build foundational knowledge in workplace safety, quality control, precision measurement, and lean manufacturing principles. Participants will also earn industry-recognized credentials that are valued by employers and provide a strong start toward careers in manufacturing, engineering, and skilled trades. Students in this pathway will: Learn essential workplace safety standards, including OSHA certification. Gain hands-on experience with manufacturing processes and equipment. Develop skills in measurement, inspection, and quality control. Understand how businesses improve efficiency using Lean Six Sigma principles. Build a strong foundation for careers in advanced manufacturing and industrial technology. This pathway is ideal for students interested in hands-on careers, manufacturing, engineering technology, or skilled trades. No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn and engage.
Credentials you will earn: OSHA 10, OSHA Forklift Certification, CPT Safety, CPT Measurement & Quality, and Lean Six Sigma White, Yellow, and Green Belts
Credentials you will earn: OSHA 10, OSHA Forklift Certification, CPT Safety, CPT Measurement & Quality, and Lean Six Sigma White, Yellow, and Green Belts