Expanded partnership between Ohio University and Washington State College of Ohio builds high-tech workforce

Through an expanded articulation agreement, Ohio University’s Russ College of Engineering and Technology is collaborating with Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) to offer WSCO students a seamless transfer pathway to an engineering degree that launches high-tech careers.

WSCO students who earn their associate degree through the Advanced Manufacturing and Integration Technology (AMIT) can now easily transfer to OHIO and complete the remaining classes for a bachelor’s degree in either Engineering Technology and Management or Project Management.

“We are pleased to expand our collaboration with Washington State College of Ohio to prepare students for high-demand engineering careers. This partnership illustrates our commitment to provide expanded educational opportunities in advanced manufacturing to our region's students. Together, we can ensure that we can grow and retain talent, contributing to the prosperity of our region and state,” said Patrick Fox, dean of OHIO’s Russ College of Engineering and Technology.

According to WSCO AMIT Associate Professor Jared Voldness, the employment outlook for manufacturing has consistently been strong and advanced manufacturing has been a significant contributor to job growth in various economies. The adoption of automation, robotics, and advanced technologies has led to the creation of new jobs.

“The Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition is excited about the Washington State College of Ohio program in Advanced Manufacturing and how it allows students to receive an Ohio University bachelor’s degree in engineering,” said George Bilokonsky of the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition, Workforce Development team. “This is a great example of how collaboration leads to great accomplishments. When we work as a team, great things happen in Appalachia!”

Since 2013, WSCO and OHIO have partnered to provide degree advancement for students in programs that include: RN to BSN, Criminal Justice, Technical and Applied Studies and Human Service.

The Russ College of Engineering and Technology is home to students from all over the world who want to learn by doing. OHIO’s state-of-the-art facilities allow nearly 1,500 undergraduate and 430 graduate students to engage in hands-on learning in design competitions, research labs and internships and co-ops. The Russ College is home to world-class research in avionics engineering, and strategically target the transportation infrastructure, energy and the environment, and bioengineering fields.