Through Manufacturing Work’s partnership with HHW Ohio, W.I.S.E. Pathways has been strengthening women's access to high-demand career pathways in manufacturing, construction, infrastructure, and renewable energy. As part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG), Manufacturing Works supports workforce ecosystem development by expanding pre-apprenticeship opportunities, raising awareness of renewable energy careers, and helping connect participants to training and employment pathways. Together with HHW, we helped enhance the W.I.S.E. (Women in Skilled Employment) Pathways program by supporting its registration as a state-recognized pre-apprenticeship program and incorporating renewable energy career exploration into the curriculum.
Why State-Recognized Pre-Apprenticeship Credentials Matter in Ohio
State-recognized pre-apprenticeship credentials are designed to prepare individuals for success in registered apprenticeships and career pathways by validating both technical and job-readiness skills. The credential helps participants stand out to employers, better understand career options, and gain a competitive advantage as they pursue employment, training, or apprenticeship opportunities.
This year, 19 participants in HHW Ohio's W.I.S.E. Pathways achieved an important milestone by earning State-recognized Pre-Apprenticeship Certificates through ApprenticeOhio, a division of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. An additional 40 participants have enrolled for the fall and winter cohorts. This accomplishment reflects the continued growth and impact of a program designed to help women explore new career opportunities, build confidence, and take meaningful steps toward family-sustaining careers.
How Career Exploration Led to Employment at NEORSD
The power of career exploration is perhaps best illustrated through the story of Stephanie Rodriguez.
When W.I.S.E. Pathways participants toured the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District's (NEORSD) Southerly Water Treatment Plant in March, Stephanie saw more than a facility—she saw a possibility for her future.
Just a few months later, that possibility became reality.
Stephanie joined the team, becoming W.I.S.E. Pathways' first career placement with NEORSD. Her success highlights the importance of connecting participants directly with employers and providing opportunities to experience workplaces firsthand.
Today, Stephanie serves in a role that combines landscaping with community outreach, allowing her to work outdoors while building connections between the district and the community it serves.
"Being outside and serving the community has given me a completely new sense of purpose, and this opportunity aligns perfectly with my core values of acceptance, growth, and community."
Stephanie's journey demonstrates what can happen when determination meets opportunity. It also highlights the critical role employer partners play in helping participants translate career exploration into meaningful employment.
How Employers Can Support Women in Skilled Employment
The success of W.I.S.E. Pathways is made possible by a strong network of employers, volunteers, community organizations, and advocates who believe in expanding opportunities for women.
If you're looking for a way to support this work, HHW Ohio offers several ways to get involved. Opportunities include serving as a Role Model Speaker, hosting a Community Information Session, supporting participant recruitment efforts, or partnering on future workforce development initiatives. We are grateful to the employers and organizations that have provided tours and Role Model Speakers this past year: Curtiss-Wright, NEORSD, Teamsters 407, Cleveland Builds, MAGNET, Saint-Gobain, and Cuyahoga Community College.
To learn more about volunteer and partnership opportunities, contact HHW Ohio Executive Director Kaci Roach at director@hhwohio.org.