News – Jobs for Ohio's Graduates

Student Success Story: Laura

Building a future takes courage, especially when the foundation beneath you has changed more times than you can count. But with the right support and career readiness training, even the most challenging circumstances can become a stepping stone to success. For Laura, joining Jobs for Ohio's Graduates (JOG) in Ashland County as an out-of-school participant was just the beginning of discovering her own strength and potential.

JOG the Web: Why More Young Adults Are Choosing Skilled Trades Over College

A shift is happening in how young people think about their futures. Across the country, more high school graduates are choosing skilled trades over traditional four-year college paths. They're part of what experts are calling "The Tool Belt Generation," a generation that values hands-on careers like welding, plumbing, HVAC, manufacturing, and construction. At Jobs for Ohio's Graduates, we've witnessed this shift. Participants are expressing genuine interest in exploring trade careers, curious about apprenticeships, and connecting with employers within those industries.

Staff Interview: Jillian

Jillian’s path to Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates began shortly after she graduated from Ashland University and earned her teaching license. After spending a short time in a traditional education setting, Jillian realized she was looking for something different: a role that allowed her to connect with students while thinking beyond the classroom. Once she learned about JOG through a connection, Jillian was thrilled to apply! From there, everything seemed to fall into place.

Staff Interview: Nancy

As JOG continues to expand its reach and impact throughout Ohio, professionals like Nancy play a critical role in connecting education, workforce development, and community resources. Her ability to see the big picture while remaining deeply invested in individual growth reflects the heart of JOG’s mission. Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared sense of purpose, Nancy’s work helps ensure that JOG participants are supported, prepared, and empowered to take their next steps toward sustainable careers.

JOG the Web: Holiday Budgeting

The holiday season can be exciting, but it can also be a tricky time to stick to a budget. Between buying gifts for family and friends, treating yourself with some of your own money, and managing holiday expenses, it’s easy to overspend without realizing it. The good news is, with a little planning, you can enjoy the season without hurting your finances.

Staff Interview: Donny

Every day brings new challenges, but Donny’s focus is simple: show up, listen, and make students feel seen and valued. Donny first joined JOG after mentoring seniors at risk of not graduating, quickly stepping into a Career Specialist role where he could help students overcome obstacles and move toward livable-wage careers.

Alumni in Action: Darshawn @ Dklutch Kreations

When former Jobs for Ohio's Graduates participant Darshawn returned to JOG for a recent Board of Directors meeting, it wasn’t as a student this time, it was as a successful business owner. Now the proud owner of Dklutch Kreations, his own catering business, Darshawn had been invited to provide food the meeting, an opportunity that made the day feel especially meaningful.

JOG the Web: Why Soft Skills Matter Just as Much as Technical Skills

When it comes to landing a job or building a career, what you know is important, but it’s not everything.

Student Success Story: Jay

In the summer before his senior year, Jay received a call inviting him to visit the Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOG) office in Medina to begin his enrollment. Excited about the opportunity, he dove right in, looking forward to getting started. Shortly after expressing his initial interest, Jay approached his Career Specialist and asked to officially join her class. Together, they completed the necessary paperwork, and Jay became part of her JOG roster. Feeling anxious but determined, Jay took his first step into the JOG program!

JOG the Web: Top 5 Skills Employers Are Looking for in 2025

The working world is moving quickly. Technology is changing how businesses run, teams are collaborating, and how employers are adapting to a workforce that looks different than it did just a few years ago. In the middle of all this change, one thing remains clear: employers are looking for young people who bring increasingly more technical know-how to the table. They want employees who are technologically literate, creative, and ready to contribute from day one. So, what exactly are those skills? Based on what we’re hearing from employers, educators, and workforce partners, here are the top five that will matter most in 2025, and how JOG helps students prepare to meet them.