Spotlight
“The Career Assessment … It asks a lot more questions rather than, ‘Do you like this?’ ‘Do you like that?’ It was more like seeing where your brain performs the best.”
Joseph, Cleveland, Ohio, High School Student.
Stats & Figures
County Highlights
North Adams Elementary Family Night: “Learning About Careers!”
Future Plans and The GRIT Project had a wonderful evening at North Adams Elementary’s Family Night, where students explored future career pathways in a fun and interactive way. At the GRIT table, students posed with life-size career posters—imagining themselves as teachers, veterinarians, cosmetologists, doctors, police officers, and construction workers. The excitement, laughter, and “I could be that!” moments made the event unforgettable.
A special thank-you to Mr. Kyle J. Brewer and the North Adams team for the warm welcome, and to the high school art department for designing the incredible posters that brought these careers to life. It was an inspiring night celebrating families, imagination, and the bright futures ahead.
SkillsUSA Competition at Ohio Valley CTC
The Ohio Valley Career & Technical Center welcomed industry partners, educators, and community members for the 2nd Annual Local SkillsUSA Competition, giving students the chance to showcase their skills, professionalism, and preparedness for careers in the trades.
As a returning judge in the Cosmetology Department, our team member had the opportunity to see firsthand the growth and confidence students have developed from year to year. The event provided meaningful networking, hands-on experience, and exposure to industry expectations—all essential elements for juniors and seniors preparing for regional and state competition.
The day was filled with connection, mentorship, and full-circle moments that highlighted the strength of Adams County’s educators, students, and community partners. It was a powerful reminder of how experiences like this shape the next generation of professionals and leaders.
Elevate Adams County 2026 Economic Forecast
The Future Plans team attended the Elevate Adams County 2026 Economic Forecast at The Riverbarn in Manchester, hosted by the Adams County Chamber of Commerce. The event brought together local and state leaders, business professionals, and community partners to discuss economic growth, workforce development, tourism, agriculture, and the future of rural communities.
The morning featured a welcome from Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge, along with impactful updates from:
- Tom Cross — Travel & Tourism
- Paul Worley — Economic Development
- Matt Abbott — SOESC
- Superintendent Dawn Wallace — Ohio Valley School District
Additional insights from Adrianne Utter, Lisa Tumbleson Davis, Ashley Wilburn, and Dave Richey highlighted the power of collaboration and community-driven progress. Student speakers also shared reflections that underscored the importance of youth leadership and workforce readiness.
The event demonstrated the growing momentum and shared pride across Adams County and its neighboring counties, showcasing how rural Ohio continues to rise—together. A special thank-you to Greg and Noah Scott for hosting and to Dave Richey of First State Bank for serving as moderator.
BB2C Learning Summit – Event Summary
Future Plans and the GRIT Project were strongly represented at the BB2C Learning Summit. Staff members served as panel moderators and participants, and several GRIT Summer Program students presented in front of nearly 200 attendees.
The summit opened with a young adult panel featuring GRIT Summer Program alumni Kenneth Hopkins and Bryce Van Hoy. Future Plans team members Sarah Redoutey and Lashley Mosser moderated breakout sessions for “Careers, Community, & Classrooms: Connecting Exploratory Activities & Curriculum Across 9th–12th Grades.”
On these panels, Sara Hunt represented the GRIT Project alongside GRIT Summer Program alumni Maddison Dietrich (Portsmouth STEM Academy, 2025) and Jordyn Crawford (Shenandoah HS, 2025). Partner organization HealthCorps was represented by Wirty Penix.
Another GRIT Summer Program student, Nina McCann (West Union HS, 2026), participated in the “Workforce Solutions: Students Exploring Careers in Healthcare” panel.
The day wrapped up with meaningful conversations and a closing story from Bear Tracks alum Kylee Pollitt.
Partners/Links: BB2C — https://www.bb2careers.org/2025-summit-speakers-bios#one-data
Supporting Over 1,400 Students at the Science Alliance
On October 7–9, Angela Pinson, Sara Hunt, Dee Hagans, Amy Queen, Lisa Scott, and Alison Bragg joined partners across southern Ohio to support more than 1,400 students at the annual Science Alliance at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy, the event connects students with hands-on STEM activities and career pathways. Businesses, colleges, and community partners engaged students in meaningful conversations about future opportunities in science, engineering, and technology.
Links: Southern Ohio Cleanup Company Facebook, VNS Federal Services LinkedIn
Supporting Regional Food Access Through The 740 Rescue Kitchen
The 740 Rescue Kitchen at Hocking College continues expanding its service footprint, now delivering meals across seven counties with support from volunteers and interns. Collaboration with Sherri Myers, Linda Barlow, and the expansion team has strengthened their human resources capacity, including onboarding two key team members—a second chef and a logistics organizer—to enhance meal distribution. The Rescue Kitchen also provides meals to individuals in the Foster Hub program. Volunteers remain essential and are greatly needed to sustain this growing effort.
Vitruvian 3D Builders Partner With Local Schools to Expand STEM & Workforce Training
Vitruvian 3D Builders is partnering with New Lexington High School on a pilot program bringing STEM education and advanced technology directly into the classroom. Future Plans assisted with training 15 individuals—many of whom secured employment shortly after—as well as supporting internship placements and long-term planning for expanded collaboration with area schools. Guidance on certification funding and course licensing helped Vitruvian advance its vision to train youth for in-demand trades. With additional support from the expansion team, 15 participants were enrolled into our program to fund their training, leading toward job placement. Vitruvian plans to continue expanding school-based training and support projects such as home construction for SAOP and Foster Hub programs, helping address the housing shortage in Southeast Ohio.
Hocking Hills Garment Center Expands Local Employment
The Hocking Hills Garment Center trained and hired seven new individuals this year, with training costs covered through our support. Ongoing collaboration continues as the organization explores future growth opportunities to bring more jobs to the community.
A Season of Growth for the Northeastern GRIT Program
It has been a busy and exciting fall for the Northeastern GRIT program. After an extremely active summer—where GRIT facilitated six youth-focused summer academies—interest in career credentials continued to grow rapidly. In response, the program launched 3 fall bootcamps, providing students across the region with accelerated, industry-aligned training opportunities.
This fall, GRIT offered:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Bootcamp – With 30 participants, this bootcamp prepared future healthcare professionals to step confidently into high-demand positions across the region.
- Welding Bootcamp – Serving 18 students, this program provided hands-on, skills-based training designed to meet the needs of local manufacturing partners.
- EMT Bootcamp – With 20 participants, GRIT continued to build a strong pipeline of trained emergency responders ready to support local communities.
Collectively, these bootcamps have been a tremendous success—over 80 industry-recognized credentials have already been earned, with more expected as follow-up testing continues. Each bootcamp was designed specifically for individuals ages 18–30, helping young adults gain the training, confidence, and experience needed to secure sustainable employment in high-demand fields.
The GRIT Expansion Program has provided support and funding this fall for 8 Ashtabula County students pursuing their Nursing and Industrial Maintenance programs. This additional support has helped eliminate financial and logistical barriers, allowing students to focus fully on their education and long-term career goals.
Transition Fair Supports Student Career Exploration
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities and Belco Works, Inc. hosted their second Transition Fair at the ECO Center in St. Clairsville, bringing together 50+ employers and organizations to help students explore future career pathways.
Engineering Students Tour the Cardinal Plant
Engineering students from Union Local and Barnesville High School visited the Cardinal Plant in Brilliant, gaining firsthand insight into a variety of engineering career opportunities.
Career Pathways at ODOT
Students from Barnesville High School toured the Ohio Department of Transportation facility in Caldwell, where they learned about the wide range of career pathways available through ODOT.
Project BEST Career Fair
Project BEST hosted a highly attended career fair at Wheeling Park’s ice rink, drawing over 1,000 students from the tri-state area. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with employers in construction trades, explore apprenticeship programs, and learn about potential career pathways. The event provided hands-on exposure and valuable connections for students considering careers in skilled trades.
Partners/Links: Project BEST
Brown LEADS for Youth Student Delegation Kickoff
On September 12, 2025, 32 student delegates from all five Brown County school districts—Eastern, Fayetteville-Perry, Georgetown, Ripley (RUHL), and Western Brown—came together at Southern State Community College in Mt. Orab for the official kickoff of the Brown LEADS for Youth program.
This leadership initiative empowers students to build confidence, identify their strengths, explore careers, and engage directly with local and state leaders. Future Plans was invited to present at the kickoff, where our team—alongside Amy Queen—introduced students to the Future Plans 5-Step Process. This framework helps students navigate self-discovery, goal setting, and intentional planning for their futures.
The kickoff marked the beginning of a meaningful year of growth, leadership, and exploration for these young delegates as they prepare for college, careers, and community impact.
Healthy Together: Byrd Township Health & Resource Expo
On November 12, the Byrd Township Community Center in Decatur hosted the Healthy Together: Byrd Township Health & Resource Expo, bringing together more than 20 agencies serving Brown and Adams counties.
Future Plans and The GRIT Project joined partners to share resources, answer questions, and connect residents with supportive services focused on health, wellness, education, and community engagement. The event created a welcoming space for individuals and families to explore local programs, learn about available support, and build connections that strengthen community well-being.
Career-Connected Learning at Goshen High School
In October, we had the privilege of attending the Goshen High School Business Advisory Council (BAC) meeting in Clermont County, led by Mr. Pat Dubbs, Director of Secondary Curriculum and College/Career Readiness. The meeting emphasized the importance of partnerships between schools and communities to prepare students for future success.
We also had the opportunity to observe juniors and seniors working with a local construction company—reading blueprints, building walls, installing electrical outlets, and gaining hands-on experience that brings learning to life. Opportunities like these at Goshen High School highlight the power of career-connected learning, helping students build real-world skills that prepare them not just for a job, but for life.
Mock Interviews Prepare Meadowbrook Seniors for Workforce Success
Meadowbrook High School recently hosted mock job interviews for senior students planning to enter the workforce after graduation. Community, business, and education leaders came together to provide students with real-world interview experience, offering constructive feedback and helping them build confidence as they prepare for future employment opportunities.
Project BEST Career Fair
Project BEST hosted a highly attended career fair at Wheeling Park’s ice rink, drawing over 1,000 students from the tri-state area. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with employers in construction trades, explore apprenticeship programs, and learn about potential career pathways. The event provided hands-on exposure and valuable connections for students considering careers in skilled trades.
Partners/Links: Project BEST
Project BEST Career Fair
Project BEST hosted a highly attended career fair at Wheeling Park’s ice rink, drawing over 1,000 students from the tri-state area. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with employers in construction trades, explore apprenticeship programs, and learn about potential career pathways. The event provided hands-on exposure and valuable connections for students considering careers in skilled trades.
Partners/Links: Project BEST
Transition Fair Supports Student Career Exploration
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities and Belco Works, Inc. hosted their second Transition Fair at the ECO Center in St. Clairsville, bringing together 50+ employers and organizations to help students explore future career pathways.
Whiteoak High School Career Exploration Engagement
Future Plans was invited by Whiteoak High School Guidance Counselor Ali Bach to meet with students and share how the Future Plans and GRIT Project tools can support their workforce journey. Students learned about their career assessment options, post-graduation pathways, and the resources available to help them explore meaningful opportunities—especially for those unsure about pursuing college.
Highland County JFS Community Workforce Event
Future Plans was invited by Highland County JFS Director Haylee Brown to participate in a community workforce event designed to support individuals entering or re-entering the workforce. Team members provided attendees with access to our assessment tool and shared updates on the work Future Plans and the GRIT Project are doing across the region to help connect talent to opportunity.
Tri-County Business Advisory Council Meeting
The Business Advisory Council (BAC) meeting, held at the SOESC Center in Clinton County, brought together partners and leaders from all three counties in this region. The gathering offered a valuable space to network, exchange updates, and collaborate around shared workforce goals. The strong cross-county engagement continues to build alignment and strengthen support for students, educators, and community partners.
Foster Hub Supports Workforce Transition for Local Residents
Foster Hub is actively working with seven individuals as they transition into the workforce. Through the GRIT Expansion Project, participants receive support to overcome barriers by accessing resources and funding for needed training. Collaboration with Linda Barlow and Niki Doles allowed several individuals to enroll in the GRIT Expansion Program—two received training at Vitruvian leading to employment opportunities, while two others received support to fund driving classes so they can secure reliable transportation. Additional collaboration with Michelle May, Director of Foster Hub, is planned to further strengthen these efforts.
Logan Chamber Expands Training Access and Workforce Support
The Logan Chamber has fully utilized its shared office spaces and continues to grow training opportunities for the community. With assistance from our team, training costs have been supported and an intern has been onboarded through our employment assistance. The Chamber is also partnering with Foster Hub to develop training for participants in areas such as soft skills, AI literacy, interview preparation, résumé writing, and job-search skills. These opportunities provide individuals with the tools and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce.
Supporting Over 1,400 Students at the Science Alliance
On October 7–9, Angela Pinson, Sara Hunt, Dee Hagans, Amy Queen, Lisa Scott, and Alison Bragg joined partners across southern Ohio to support more than 1,400 students at the annual Science Alliance at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy, the event connects students with hands-on STEM activities and career pathways. Businesses, colleges, and community partners engaged students in meaningful conversations about future opportunities in science, engineering, and technology.
Links: Southern Ohio Cleanup Company Facebook, VNS Federal Services LinkedIn
Jefferson County Students Explore Post-Graduation Pathways
The Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, OhioMeansJobs, CAC, and numerous colleges, trade schools, military branches, and first responders came together to give high school students an opportunity to explore a wide range of post-graduation pathways. The event provided valuable exposure to career and education options as students plan for their futures.
Project BEST Career Fair
Project BEST hosted a highly attended career fair at Wheeling Park’s ice rink, drawing over 1,000 students from the tri-state area. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with employers in construction trades, explore apprenticeship programs, and learn about potential career pathways. The event provided hands-on exposure and valuable connections for students considering careers in skilled trades.
Partners/Links: Project BEST
Project BEST Career Fair
Project BEST hosted a highly attended career fair at Wheeling Park’s ice rink, drawing over 1,000 students from the tri-state area. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with employers in construction trades, explore apprenticeship programs, and learn about potential career pathways. The event provided hands-on exposure and valuable connections for students considering careers in skilled trades.
Partners/Links: Project BEST
Future Plans Student Engagement
Monroe County’s River High School, Monroe Central High School, and the CTC Swiss Hills sophomores have completed career assessments and coaching. Career Navigator Sandy Doudna has been actively guiding students through Step 3, helping them explore career discovery events. Students have participated in a variety of hands-on experiences, including:
Visits from Long Ridge Energy representatives to River High School, Project BEST Union Trades Day in Wheeling, Discover Finance Day in Marietta, Manufacturing in Action Day, Memorial Health Systems visits, Ohio University Eastern Program Day, College Fair at the Highlands, and Energy Tech Exhibition at Marietta College
Regional Partners Strengthen Connections Through Cross-Training
9/16/2025
Workforce Development Area 15 hosted a cross-training session on September 16 at Washington County Job & Family Services. Partners from across the region, including GRIT, OOD, WIOA, CCMEP, and OhioMeansJobs, came together to share program updates, streamline referrals, and strengthen collaboration. The event concluded with planning for the next partner meeting in October.
Apprenticeship Summit Participation
Future Plans Community Outreach Partner Lashley Moser and Workforce Development Lead Meagan Wood attended the Tri-State ARC Apprenticeship Summit and Networking Event in Marietta. They joined workforce leaders and regional partners to explore apprenticeship pathways, observe programs in action, and learn more about opportunities such as Helmets to Hardhats and ESC pre-apprenticeship models. The event strengthened connections across the region and helped expand knowledge of high-quality training options available to students and job seekers.
Strengthening Partnerships at the OhioMeansJobs Morgan Partner Meeting
Future Plans joined regional partners at the OhioMeansJobs Morgan quarterly meeting, held at Morgan County JFS and facilitated by Joe Frazier. The gathering brought together leaders in workforce, economic development, and community services to collaborate and share updates. Guest speaker Leah Rush of Big Brothers Big Sisters highlighted the Beyond School Walls mentorship program at Morgan High School, emphasizing the value of connecting students with caring adult role models.
Regional Partners Strengthen Connections Through Cross-Training
9/16/2025
Workforce Development Area 15 hosted a cross-training session on September 16 at Washington County Job & Family Services. Partners from across the region, including GRIT, OOD, WIOA, CCMEP, and OhioMeansJobs, came together to share program updates, streamline referrals, and strengthen collaboration. The event concluded with planning for the next partner meeting in October.
Engaging in Regional Economic Development Conversations
Future Plans COP Lashley Moser attended the ACEnet Lunch & Learn in Noble County, joining county commissioners, community leaders, and regional partners to discuss economic growth, business support, and upcoming initiatives designed to strengthen local economies.
Apprenticeship Summit Participation
Future Plans Community Outreach Partner Lashley Moser and Workforce Development Lead Meagan Wood attended the Tri-State ARC Apprenticeship Summit and Networking Event in Marietta. They joined workforce leaders and regional partners to explore apprenticeship pathways, observe programs in action, and learn more about opportunities such as Helmets to Hardhats and ESC pre-apprenticeship models. The event strengthened connections across the region and helped expand knowledge of high-quality training options available to students and job seekers.
Family & Children First Council Collaboration
Local organizations convened through the Family and Children First Council to discuss current community needs and share important program updates, including Medicaid Open Enrollment, JFS services, and the Angel Tree initiative. Legacy Driving School also introduced a new partnership to offer youth and adult driving instruction at the Malta Youth Center, expanding local transportation readiness resources.
Future Plans Progress at Morgan Local Schools
Morgan High School sophomores have officially completed Step 1 of the Future Plans five-step process, completing their assessments as part of a countywide effort to support student exploration. Step 2 coaching is underway, and planning has begun for a Step 3 Public Works Discovery Day in the spring, offered in partnership with Morgan County OhioMeansJobs. This event will provide students with hands-on exposure to local workforce pathways and public service careers.
Promoting Mental Health and Hope Across Noble County
9/5/2025
In recognition of Suicide Awareness Month, Lashley Moser joined prevention specialist Dawn from Allwell Behavioral Health Services, along with the Noble County Wellness Coalition and the Guernsey/Noble Suicide Coalition, to visit eight local businesses across the county. Together, they shared student-designed drink coasters featuring the Crisis Text Line and distributed mental health resources aimed at raising awareness and strengthening community support. We are grateful to our local businesses for helping spread messages of hope and connection.
Local Leaders Collaborate for Student Success
9/5/2025
On September 19, the Noble County Schools Business Advisory Council met to reflect on progress from the 2024–2025 school year and to plan for the year ahead. Members reviewed key data from Future Plans and GRIT, BB2C impact reports, district report card components, and student experience numbers for the Class of 2025. Together, they identified goals for Noble Local and Caldwell schools and set the stage for continued collaboration in the upcoming school year.
Regional Partners Strengthen Connections Through Cross-Training
9/16/2025
Workforce Development Area 15 hosted a cross-training session on September 16 at Washington County Job & Family Services. Partners from across the region, including GRIT, OOD, WIOA, CCMEP, and OhioMeansJobs, came together to share program updates, streamline referrals, and strengthen collaboration. The event concluded with planning for the next partner meeting in October.
GRIT Students and Staff Inspire at the BB2C Learning Summit
9/26/2025
The Future Plans and GRIT teams were proud to take part in the annual BB2C Learning Summit, where GRIT Summer Program alumni Kenneth Hopkins and Bryce Van Hoy helped open the event alongside nearly 200 attendees. Staff members Sarah Redoutey and Lashley Moser served as breakout moderators, while students and alumni — including Maddison Dietrich, Jordyn Crawford, and Nina McCann — shared their experiences connecting classroom learning to career exploration. The event closed with inspiring stories from alumni like Kylee Pollitt, showcasing the impact of real-world, hands-on learning.
Meet the speakers here.
Empowering Students Through Career Exploration
10/8/2025
Future Plans and GRIT joined Genesis Healthcare System, MVESC, OhioMeansJobs, and the Chamber of Commerce for the Junior Achievement Inspire event, where more than 1,300 students explored career pathways through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. Events like this continue to spark curiosity and confidence as students discover their strengths and interests.
Supporting Women’s Health and Wellness
10/15/2025
The Noble County Wellness Coalition recently welcomed Shari Rayner, Director of Nursing at the Noble County Health Department, for an informative presentation on reproductive and women’s health services. The discussion highlighted accessible, low-cost care options that empower individuals to stay healthy and workforce-ready — directly aligning with the mission of Future Plans and the GRIT Project to support whole-person success.
Exploring Strengths and Career Goals at Caldwell High School
10/14/2025
Sophomore students at Caldwell High School recently completed the Future Plans assessment to identify their unique strengths, aptitudes, and career interests. Special thanks to Career Navigator Ted Seacrest, Principal Eli Svercek, and Stephanie Schott from Ohio Valley Employment Resources for guiding students as they begin mapping their futures.
Celebrating Community Collaboration
10/25/2025
Lashley Moser represented Future Plans and the GRIT Project at the Noble County Chamber of Commerce Fall Fundraiser, joining local businesses in an evening dedicated to community growth and partnership. The event celebrated the ongoing collaboration and shared commitment that make Noble County stronger together.
New Lexington Students Experience Trades Opportunities at SHEdig
Future Plans supported New Lexington High School during their field trip to Local 18’s SHEdig event in Logan. The event creates a welcoming environment for high school girls to safely operate heavy machinery and explore careers in the skilled trades. Nearly 50 students from all grade levels participated in the hands-on experience.
Perry County Housing Coalition Raises Funds to Support Unhoused Residents
The Perry County Housing Coalition hosted its annual auction in partnership with Ludowici Tile Factory, raising nearly $20,000. These funds will directly support individuals experiencing homelessness in Perry County by providing emergency shelter, food, and essential items.
Future Plans Engages Students at JA Inspire Career Fair
Hands-On Learning at West LA Brew
Senior Delaney welcomed Alison Bragg to the West LA Brew Coffee Shop, located inside the Western Career Development Center’s community space. The West LA Ecosystem has had an active start to the school year, offering students real-world experiences that build confidence, customer service skills, and workplace readiness.
Learn more: westlaecosystem.com/west-la-brew
Career Exploration Through Virtual Reality
Careers & Transitions Teacher Casey Phillips, alongside Pike OMJ Case Manager Andy Rice and GRIT’s Alison Bragg, brought career simulations to Waverly High School using virtual reality headsets. Students participated in hands-on “discovery” activities to explore potential career paths and gain insight into their strengths. This immersive experience sparked meaningful conversations and curiosity among students.
Supporting Over 1,400 Students at the Science Alliance
On October 7–9, Angela Pinson, Sara Hunt, Dee Hagans, Amy Queen, Lisa Scott, and Alison Bragg joined partners across southern Ohio to support more than 1,400 students at the annual Science Alliance at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy, the event connects students with hands-on STEM activities and career pathways. Businesses, colleges, and community partners engaged students in meaningful conversations about future opportunities in science, engineering, and technology.
Links: Southern Ohio Cleanup Company Facebook, VNS Federal Services LinkedIn
Pike County Students Explore Postsecondary Pathways
Waverly High School hosted a countywide College Fair for all Pike County Schools, where partners, Pike CAC/OMJ and The GRIT Project team, met with students to help them explore training, education, and career options after graduation.
New School-Based Health Center Opens at Scioto Valley High School
The Scioto Valley Local School District, in partnership with Valley View Health Centers (VVHC), celebrated the grand opening of the new School-Based Health Center at Scioto Valley High School. The center will provide accessible medical and behavioral health services for students, families, and community members. Supported through the Appalachian Children’s Health Initiative — a $64 million investment championed by Governor Mike DeWine — this project expands essential healthcare resources and helps ensure students stay healthy, supported, and ready to learn.
Pike County GRIT Coalition Continues Its Mission
The Pike County GRIT Coalition will meet on November 18 at the Pike County CTC, bringing together schools, businesses, and community partners to continue strengthening resources and support systems across the county. The coalition remains committed to removing barriers, uplifting neighbors, and building a stronger, more resilient Pike County.
GRIT Engages in Major Workforce & Economic Development Announcement
On September 25, GRIT Community Outreach Partner, Angela Pinson attended a landmark event at Centrus Energy’s uranium enrichment facility in Piketon, where federal, state, and industry leaders unveiled a multi-billion-dollar expansion. The project is expected to create roughly 1,000 construction jobs and 300 new long-term operations jobs, reinforcing Southern Ohio’s role in national defense and energy independence.
Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the project’s significance, noting: “Uranium enrichment operations in Piketon have played a critical role in U.S. national defense since the earliest days of the Cold War… Centrus’ commitment to expand and upgrade its Piketon facility underscores Ohio’s importance in supporting our nation’s economic and national security.”
Centrus CEO Amir Vexler echoed this urgency, highlighting the importance of restoring domestic enrichment capacity to meet global and national demand. GRIT’s presence reflects our commitment to engaging in regional economic initiatives that strengthen the workforce and create opportunity across Appalachian Ohio.
Learn more: Ohio Governor’s Office
Supporting Job Seekers at the Ross County Employment Expo
Future Plans joined nearly 80 organizations at the Ross County Employment Expo on September 25, offering hands-on support to job seekers following the August 10 closure of the Pixelle Specialty Solutions paper mill, which resulted in the loss of more than 700 jobs. Held at the Shoemaker Center in Chillicothe, the Expo connected residents to employers, training opportunities, and workforce resources during a time of significant transition.
Future Plans’ presence at the event reflects our mission to help individuals navigate career change, discover new pathways, and access the tools needed to rebuild after disruption. Events like this highlight the importance of GRIT’s work — mobilizing quickly, partnering deeply, and ensuring that impacted families have the resources they need to move forward.
Supporting Over 1,400 Students at the Science Alliance
On October 7–9, Angela Pinson, Sara Hunt, Dee Hagans, Amy Queen, Lisa Scott, and Alison Bragg joined partners across southern Ohio to support more than 1,400 students at the annual Science Alliance at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy, the event connects students with hands-on STEM activities and career pathways. Businesses, colleges, and community partners engaged students in meaningful conversations about future opportunities in science, engineering, and technology.
Links: Southern Ohio Cleanup Company Facebook, VNS Federal Services LinkedIn
BB2C Learning Summit – Event Summary
Future Plans and the GRIT Project were strongly represented at the BB2C Learning Summit. Staff members served as panel moderators and participants, and several GRIT Summer Program students presented in front of nearly 200 attendees.
The summit opened with a young adult panel featuring GRIT Summer Program alumni Kenneth Hopkins and Bryce Van Hoy. Future Plans team members Sarah Redoutey and Lashley Mosser moderated breakout sessions for “Careers, Community, & Classrooms: Connecting Exploratory Activities & Curriculum Across 9th–12th Grades.”
On these panels, Sara Hunt represented the GRIT Project alongside GRIT Summer Program alumni Maddison Dietrich (Portsmouth STEM Academy, 2025) and Jordyn Crawford (Shenandoah HS, 2025). Partner organization HealthCorps was represented by Wirty Penix.
Another GRIT Summer Program student, Nina McCann (West Union HS, 2026), participated in the “Workforce Solutions: Students Exploring Careers in Healthcare” panel.
The day wrapped up with meaningful conversations and a closing story from Bear Tracks alum Kylee Pollitt.
Partners/Links: BB2C — https://www.bb2careers.org/2025-summit-speakers-bios#one-data
Supporting Over 1,400 Students at the Science Alliance
On October 7–9, Angela Pinson, Sara Hunt, Dee Hagans, Amy Queen, Lisa Scott, and Alison Bragg joined partners across southern Ohio to support more than 1,400 students at the annual Science Alliance at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy, the event connects students with hands-on STEM activities and career pathways. Businesses, colleges, and community partners engaged students in meaningful conversations about future opportunities in science, engineering, and technology.
Links: Southern Ohio Cleanup Company Facebook, VNS Federal Services LinkedIn
Future Plans’ Sara Hunt, Community Outreach Partner for Scioto County, and GRIT Summer Program alum Maddison Dietrich represented the county at the BB2C “Students as Pathmakers” Summit.
They participated on a panel focused on student voice, community partnerships, and real-world learning. Maddison — now an Occupational Therapy student at Shawnee State University — shared her experience as a 2025 GRIT Summer Program participant and highlighted the impact of student-led opportunities in Scioto County.
Their contributions helped spotlight how Future Plans and GRIT continue empowering students to shape their own career pathways.
Regional Partners Strengthen Connections Through Cross-Training
9/16/2025
Workforce Development Area 15 hosted a cross-training session on September 16 at Washington County Job & Family Services. Partners from across the region, including GRIT, OOD, WIOA, CCMEP, and OhioMeansJobs, came together to share program updates, streamline referrals, and strengthen collaboration. The event concluded with planning for the next partner meeting in October.
Manufacturing In Action Event
The 5th Annual Manufacturing In Action event was held on Friday, October 3rd, welcoming 400–500 juniors and seniors from Ohio and West Virginia who are interested in manufacturing and skilled trades careers. Students had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, explore local career pathways, and connect directly with employers. Local manufacturers and trade organizations showcased interactive demonstrations, inspiring students to consider building their futures within the Mid-Ohio Valley. It was a powerful day focused on learning, exploration, and strengthening the region’s future workforce.
Apprenticeship Summit Participation
Future Plans Community Outreach Partner Lashley and Workforce Development Lead Meagan Wood attended the Tri-State ARC Apprenticeship Summit and Networking Event in Marietta. They joined workforce leaders and regional partners to explore apprenticeship pathways, observe programs in action, and learn more about opportunities such as Helmets to Hardhats and ESC pre-apprenticeship models. The event strengthened connections across the region and helped expand knowledge of high-quality training options available to students and job seekers.
Family Career Fest
Kelly Helber and Lashley Moser from the Future Plans team connected with students and families during Family Career Fest, offering career guidance and program information. This free community event was filled with hands-on activities, food, and prizes—all designed to help families explore future pathways together.
Warren High School: Step One Launch
Future Plans kicked off Step One of our five-step process with Warren High School alongside Career Navigator Jenny Higgins. Dan Leffingwell, VP of Community & Government Relations for Future Plans, energized students during an interactive pep rally, building enthusiasm as they began their assessments and started exploring their future possibilities.
Waterford High School & Frontier Local
Waterford High School and Frontier Local both launched their partnerships with Future Plans, beginning Step One by assessing their sophomore classes.
Fort Frye High School
Fort Frye sophomores have completed Step One of their Future Plans journey. Coaching sessions will begin in November, preparing students to use their assessment results as they explore opportunities at the upcoming We Are Fort Frye Community Day.
Brown County – Dragonfly Village – Building a Stronger, Healthier Community—Together
As we welcome the New Year, our wellness and community campus continues its mission of creating a supportive, growth-focused environment for all who visit. Designed as a place of wellness, learning, and opportunity, the campus will offer integrated services, community programs, and supporting purpose-driven spaces that encourage progress and connection. In the year ahead, we remain committed to expanding resources, strengthening partnerships, and fostering a campus culture that promotes well-being, empowerment, and long-term success for every resident and guest. Stay tuned as Dragonfly Village prepares to launch a full calendar of programs, workshops, and community events designed to support wellness, learning, and connection. With our website coming soon, you’ll be able to explore campus resources, upcoming activities, and opportunities to get involved. We can’t wait to share what’s ahead.
Spotlight: Peer Recovery Support Internship
The Peer Recovery Support (PRS) Initiative is transforming lives across Appalachian Ohio by combining recovery tools with workforce development. Kelly Johnson, a PRS intern, shares how the program gave her purpose and opened doors to new career possibilities, while her coach, Michael Rickey, reflects on her growth and dedication.
👉 Read Kelly’s inspiring story and learn more about the PRS Initiative: Kelly’s PRS Testimonial