Workforce Readiness Programs
Knox ASPECT & Morrow emPOWER
Hands-on workforce readiness programs designed to build a pipeline of career-ready talent.
Investing in the Future of
Manufacturing
To help address the growing talent gap in manufacturing, the MEP at Columbus State partners with local workforce alliances, schools, and manufacturers to deliver impactful, real-world career readiness experiences to students in Knox and Morrow Counties. These programs provide a direct path from the classroom to employment through soft skills training, technical education, plant tours, and guaranteed job interviews.
Knox ASPECT
Created in 2021, Knox ASPECT is a 5-week career readiness program developed by a coalition of local manufacturers, WorkDev, and the MEP at CSCC. Focused on high school seniors, the program replaces one school day per week with immersive training in manufacturing fundamentals—ranging from safety and soft skills to technical know-how and interview prep.
Morrow emPOWER
Launched in 2024, Morrow emPOWER adapts the Knox ASPECT model to meet the workforce needs of Morrow County. The program combines classroom learning, soft skills development, and on-site manufacturer visits to prepare students for real-world opportunities—and it’s already showing results.
Are you a school, student, or business interested in bringing this program to your area?