Workforce Initiatives

Workforce development starts with the right partnerships. We work with area employers to build customized training programs, industry credentials and initiatives that strengthen both your team and the region.

Professional Development

Make talent development a driver of your organizational success! The Professional Development team at Kent State partners with area employers to meet talent development needs with customized, contracted employee training and public professional development programs and certifications.

You’ll find all of our offerings in our catalog or from our program pages.

TechCred

�� is an approved training provider for Ohio’s TechCred program, an initiative that helps employers invest in the skills their workforce needs to succeed in today’s technology-driven economy. Through TechCred, businesses can support employees in earning industry-recognized credentials that build new capabilities and prepare them for more advanced roles.

Workforce Initiative for a Sustainable Environment (WISE)

The Workforce Initiative for a Sustainable Environment (WISE) is a collaborative program at �� aimed at creating a skilled workforce for the sustainable polymer industry. Led by the University of Akron, WISE also partners with Case Western Reserve University, Central State University, and Stark State University, to develop new training, certificates, and degree programs in sustainable polymer technologies and lifecycle management.

The initiative receives funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and is part of a larger $51 million federal grant for the Sustainable Polymers Tech Hub. Its goal is to create jobs, reduce the environmental impact of plastics, and improve the region’s economic competitiveness.

Scholarships

The WISE Scholarship Program at �� is available for students currently enrolled in an approved sustainability course and who exhibit financial need. Students who wish to pursue advanced training in sustainable polymer science and environmentally responsible materials innovation, will be given substantial consideration. The deadline for applications is September 01, 2026.

Tuition assistance: The WISE Program provides up to $3,000 in financial assistance to students enrolled in polymer sustainability related coursework.

Eligibility Requirements: Student must provide proof of an outstanding balance on account and be enrolled in a sustainability related course identified in the "qualified course list".

Provide a pdf document showing student i.d. and outstanding balance from the financial aid/bursar's office.
Provide a pdf document showing proof of of enrollment in one of the "qualified courses".
Documents can be emailed to WISE@kent.edu.
Be a United States (U.S.) citizen and/or be eligible to legally work in the U.S.
Apply and complete the online application on Scholarship Universe.
Demonstrate interest in sustainable materials, green manufacturing, or related career pathways.

To be considered for participation, applicants must be enrolled as an undergraduate/graduate student in one of the qualified courses below:

ENGR 27210 Introduction to Sustainability
ENGR 61095 Sustainable Energy Systems
ENGR 81095 Sustainable Energy Systems
FDM 10043 Sustainable Fashion Thinking.

Summer Undergraduate Research Experience

The Kent State Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program is an incredibly successful experiential learning opportunity for students. The KSU WISE project will provide four students a fellowship each summer to conduct research specifically in polymer sustainability.

Qualifying students should come from Aeronautics and Engineering and Chemistry and Biochemistry, although no limitations will be put on discipline. Further, cross-disciplinary experiences (a chemistry student working with a faculty member from Aeronautics and Engineering) will be prioritized. Click here for more information and to apply

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