Ohio would require TechCred credentials to meet job and wage standards

Ohio officials would limit TechCred approvals to credentials that meet the state’s standards for economic value. These requirements would cover credentials considered for TechCred, the employer training program, and would include any additional approval rules the development director adopts. Credentials would need to show a measurable return on training costs and positive job and wage results. They would also need industry acceptance, a path toward further qualifications, and use across multiple employers.

The development director would publish the approved credential list, review it at least once every three years, and publish annual reports. Public reports would cover approved credentials, workers’ job and wage results, and available information about demand for workers. The director could remove a credential that no longer meets the approval criteria. Rules for evaluating and approving credentials would be due within 180 days of the section’s effective date. Annual reports would begin on the first August 1 following that date.

State officials would use wage and workforce records to evaluate credentials. The job and family services director would provide requested records to the development director to help decide which credentials qualify. Sharing wage and claim records would require a written data sharing agreement that meets federal standards.