Rep. McNally Announces Over $730K to YSU for Improvement Projects and Workforce Training

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) today announced that the Ohio Controlling Board released over $730,186.07 to Youngstown State University (YSU) for two projects. One is for workforce training technology and the other is for tangible improvements to the university’s buildings.

“I am excited to see YSU embrace the newest forms of technology in order to train students for the workforce,” said Rep. McNally. “I think this investment will give students the opportunity to experience trainings in innovative, safe ways and help create an even stronger pipeline of graduates ready to succeed.”

YSU is receiving $310,116.07 in funding for specialized training equipment to expand YSU and local career centers to deliver workforce training. This funding is through the RAPIDS program (Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills) which the Department of Higher Education uses to invest in programs that will help with verified workforce demands in different areas of the state. 

YSU will use the funds to purchase virtual welding equipment to support students pursuing an associate’s degree in welding. Other centers will be using these funds for scenario based first responder training, nursing and allied health simulations and diagnostic equipment, and EMS and nursing equipment to support training on industry-standard resuscitation technologies with integrated cardiac monitoring, defibrillation, pacing, and CPR quality feedback.

YSU is also receiving $420,070 for window and door replacement. These funds were made available through a higher education improvement fund.