Rep. Jarrells Announces Over $315K in Workforce Training Investment at Columbus State

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) Wednesday is proud to announce that Columbus State Community College will receive $315,406 in new capital funding as part of the Ohio Department of Higher Education's Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills (RAPIDS) program. The investment, approved this week by the Ohio Controlling Board, is part of an $8M statewide allocation aimed at strengthening workforce training and modernizing equipment across Ohio's public colleges and universities.

“These dollars are more than just an investment in equipment — they're an investment in people," said Rep. Jarrells. "By giving Columbus State the resources it needs to meet the demands of today's job market, we are opening doors for students and families across Central Ohio. This funding directly supports the growth of our local economy, the success of our businesses, and the future of our workforce."

The RAPIDS initiative funds the purchase of high-tech equipment and training tools in partnership with regional employers to better prepare students and incumbent workers for in-demand careers. Institutions like Columbus State work directly with industries facing workforce shortages — from healthcare to advanced manufacturing — to align education with real-world hiring needs.

"Columbus State has long been a national model for community-centered workforce development," said Rep. Jarrells. "This funding reaffirms our shared commitment to preparing students for careers that not only pay well, but also power the future of our city and state."

The RAPIDS program has even broader impacts; funds have been distributed to more than 30 institutions across Ohio, including Central State University and the Ohio State University.

For more information about the RAPIDS program, visit https://highered.ohio.gov/initiatives/workforce-development/rapids