Employers seeking to participate in TechCred can partner with a training provider in their region or online. The Ohio Workforce Supply Tool and the Ohio Workforce Inventory of Education and Training are great resources to find training providers. Additionally, you can find a map of all public institutions of higher education here. 

TechCred is designed to be responsive to the dynamic workforce needs of employers. Employers are encouraged to pursue the technology credentials that will best prepare their workforce for future success and business growth. Employers can request that additional credentials, which meet the eligibility requirements, be added to the list of eligible credentials in the application process. When filling out the application, businesses will choose “Credential Not Listed” and answer a few simple questions about the credential they are suggesting. A panel of experts will then review each additional credential submitted.  

Credential: The term credential encompasses educational certificates, degrees, certifications, and government-issued licenses.

Certificate: Earned by individuals who successfully complete a training, course, or series of courses.

Certification: Earned by individuals who pass a standardized assessment that recognizes an individual's knowledge, skill, or competency in a particular specialty.

To be an eligible credential, credentials must meet all three criteria. Credentials must be:

• Industry-recognized
  • The term “industry-recognized,” used with respect to a credential, means a credential that is sought or accepted by employers within the industry, or sector involved, is a recognized, preferred, or required credential for recruitment, screening, hiring, retention or advancement purposes; and, where appropriate, is endorsed by a nationally recognized trade association or organization representing a significant part of the industry or sector.
• Technology-focused
  • Technology credentials demonstrate the competencies necessary to succeed in an occupation that utilizes technology to develop, build, and deliver products and services. Technology credentials rely on science, technology, engineering and/or math related education, as well as technical skills, to benefit an employer dependent on the development, deployment and investment in new and emerging technology, including software development, advanced manufacturing, data analytics, cybersecurity, computer hardware and design, military applications and other emerging fields.
• Short-term
  • Must be completed in less than 12 months. Is less than 30 credit hours or 900 clock hours.

The list of eligible credentials is available on the credential list page. Employers can request for credentials, which meet the eligibility requirements, to be added to the list of eligible credentials in the application process. When filling out the application, businesses will choose “Credential Not Listed” and answer a few simple questions about the credential they are suggesting. A panel of experts will then review each additional credential submitted for approval by employers.

The TechCred program encourages employers to choose the training provider that will most effectively meet their needs. Examples of eligible training providers include: universities, community colleges, Ohio technical centers, and private training providers.