BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Crawford Success Center is encouraging community members to explore its offerings, from college courses starting this fall to a variety of workforce development initiatives. Center Manager Nate Harvey and Workforce Development Manager Randy Blankenship recently highlighted the opportunities available at the center.
Harvey announced that individuals can begin their college careers at North Central State College‘s Crawford Success Center this fall, with the semester starting in August. Four general education courses will be offered: English, statistics, speech, and a first-year student success class.
“Whether even if it’s taken one or two of those or taking all four, you can take your first 16 weeks with us, and our staff will be there to wrap all the resources and support for you,” Harvey said. He also noted that the center is currently assisting prospective students with placement testing and financial aid support, including Pell Grant eligibility.
Looking ahead, Harvey mentioned that center staff will be visiting area high schools in May for awards nights to present scholarships.
Blankenship detailed the growing workforce development efforts at the Crawford Success Center, which he described as a “workforce hub.” A recent addition is the Timken Electromechanical lab, equipped for industrial electricity and maintenance training. Employers can send their employees for short-term training in areas like AC/DC electricity, motor controls, pneumatics, mechanical systems, and electronic sensors. Temkin is currently utilizing the lab for its employees’ training.
In partnership with the Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center, the Crawford Success Center is also running a “Turbo Cert” program. This initiative allows high school juniors and seniors from Crawford County to earn industry-recognized credentials in advanced manufacturing (NIMS safety and measurement, FANUC robotic arm programming), FAA Part 107 drone certification, and a Level 1 safety endorsement. Blankenship noted that these credentials can help students meet graduation requirements and provide pathways to future education or employment. Phlebotomy certification is expected to be added to the program in the fall of 2025.
The center also offers community training programs, including a recent leadership series and Microsoft Excel training, both of which were sold out. Upcoming sessions include a customer service training this Thursday and an “Intro to Artificial Intelligence” workshop on Wednesday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The AI session aims to help individuals understand and utilize tools like ChatGPT in their personal and professional lives.
For more information about the Crawford Success Center, individuals can call 419-755-9039 or visit the center at 130 N Walnut St. in Bucyrus. Updates on programs and trainings are also available on the Crawford Success Center’s Facebook and Instagram pages.