The Ohio State University at Lima is partnering with regional manufacturers to train a new generation of engineers.
Everybody is having a hard time finding employees right now, but when it comes to engineers, "Those positions are vacant. They're empty," according to OSU Lima Dean and Director Tim Rehner. Tim told us that's why OSU launched a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology on three of its regional campuses. Tim says that unlike a lot of other engineering programs, this one is anchored in manufacturing and production with real-world, hands-on training on machinery that is being used in local plants. "This particular program was developed in partnership with manufacturers that focused on what they need. It emphases hands-on learning. A manufacturing focus. As we have gone around to shop the curriculum and talk about whether this is the kind of a degree that a manufacturer would want to hire, the answer has been overwhelmingly, 'yes and we need them today.'" Cenovus Senior Communications Advisor Heather Rutz added, "BSET graduates are continuous learners. They are problem solvers and they're leaders. These are all good fits for the refinery. That hands-on component of this degree is really important for us."
The BSET program is housed at the Ford Lima Engine Plant in the former training center and features 40,000 square feet on the ground floor, offices, labs, tool rooms, robots, high tech classrooms and a 300 seat auditorium.
