Ohio is putting its money where its freight is. With $5.1 million in workforce grants, Governor Mike DeWine is tackling one of the biggest challenges facing the economy—not enough workers in trucking, logistics, and warehousing.
Among the recipients of this funding, the Ohio Supply Chain Academic Network (O-SCAN) is getting $100,000 to expand industry-education partnerships and recruit the next generation of supply chain professionals. Because let’s be real—warehouses don’t run themselves, and if trucks stop rolling, so does everything else.
If Ohio doesn’t act now, the state (and the entire country) could face an even bigger workforce crisis. So, the question is: Will enough workers step up before supply chains start shutting down?
Ohio’s Workforce Crisis: Too Many Jobs, Not Enough People
It’s not a small issue—it’s a massive labor shortage that could hit the entire supply chain like a freight train.
257,000 new jobs are expected to be created in Ohio over the next five years. But the workforce is only projected to grow by 0.3%—not nearly enough to meet demand. That leaves a 210,000-job gap that won’t fill itself.
The trucking and logistics industries are already feeling the pinch. Ohio’s freight hubs are busier than ever, e-commerce demand is skyrocketing, and companies are desperate for skilled workers to keep everything moving.
The situation is so critical that business leaders and government officials are racing to train, recruit, and retain workers before this shortage brings supply chains to a halt.
O-SCAN: The Program That’s Getting More People into Supply Chain Jobs
The Ohio Supply Chain Academic Network (O-SCAN) was designed to fix this exact problem. Launched in 2019 as a partnership between Columbus State Community College and Ohio State University’s Max M. Fisher College of Business, O-SCAN connects education with real-world industry needs.
Josh Compton, COO of ClearView Management Resources, made it clear:
“The supply chain and logistics sector is the backbone of Ohio’s economy. With this grant, we are taking a strategic step to build a pipeline of skilled professionals who can support and drive industry growth.”
In simple terms? O-SCAN is making supply chain careers a real, attractive option for Ohioans.
How? By Doing What the Industry Actually Needs:
Expanding career awareness—Because nobody applies for a job they don’t know exists. Aligning training with industry needs—So workers are ready from day one. Building direct hiring pipelines—So employers aren’t scrambling for talent.
O-SCAN is solving the workforce problem at its roots—and that’s why it just got a $100,000 boost to do even more.
Why This Matters: If Ohio Fails, the Whole Country Feels It
Ohio isn’t just a Midwestern state with a workforce issue—it’s a major supply chain hub for the entire country.
77% of the U.S. population is within a two-day drive from Columbus. Ohio has one of the largest trucking and warehousing networks in the U.S. The Rickenbacker Inland Port is a key international freight hub.
If Ohio doesn’t have enough truckers, warehouse workers, and logistics professionals, the whole U.S. economy suffers. That means:
Longer shipping times. Higher costs for businesses. More supply chain disruptions.
This isn’t just Ohio’s problem—it’s a national issue. And that’s why Ohio is investing big in workforce solutions.
CDL Training Gets a Major Boost—Because Trucks Don’t Move Themselves (Yet)
One of the biggest priorities? Expanding Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training programs.
38,000+ trucking job openings in Ohio in just the last two years. $55,000+ average salary for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. CDL demand is rising, and Ohio needs more drivers—fast.
The Ohio Trucking Association led a major push for CDL training expansion, securing a $5 million fund to help more people get trained. This funding will allow students to cover 50% of their CDL costs through grants and 50% through low-interest loans, making it easier and more affordable to enter the trucking industry.
Christine Boucher, Director of the Columbus Region Logistics Council, emphasized the importance of this move:
“We’re excited to help supply the supply chain with the talent it desperately needs.”
O-SCAN is working with vocational programs, community colleges, and employers to make sure CDL training is accessible, affordable, and fast-tracked for job placement.
Bottom line? If you want to start a career in trucking, now is the time.
This Isn’t Just About Trucking—It’s About the Entire Supply Chain
Yes, trucking is a huge piece of this puzzle, but Ohio’s workforce investments go far beyond just CDL drivers.
O-SCAN and other state programs are working to train and hire workers for every part of the supply chain, including: Warehouse and distribution center workers—Because freight doesn’t move itself. Logistics managers and supply chain analysts—The people making the big decisions. Forklift and heavy equipment operators—Because not everything can be carried by hand.
By investing in all areas of logistics, Ohio is making sure its supply chain stays strong, efficient, and ready for future growth.
What This Means for Businesses, Job Seekers, and Everyday People
Ohio’s workforce investment is a game-changer for everyone.
For job seekers: Supply chain jobs offer good pay, job security, and growth opportunities. For businesses: A skilled workforce means less downtime, faster deliveries, and lower costs. For the economy: A strong supply chain keeps costs stable and commerce flowing.
By filling workforce gaps now, Ohio is setting itself up for long-term economic success.
The Bottom Line: Ohio Isn’t Waiting—It’s Leading the Way
Ohio isn’t just talking about workforce development—it’s investing millions to make sure trucking, logistics, and warehousing careers are thriving.
CDL training is expanding to bring in more drivers.
Supply chain education is growing to prepare workers for in-demand careers.
Warehousing, logistics, and freight operations are getting the workforce they need.
And this isn’t just a one-time fix—it’s a long-term strategy to keep Ohio’s economy strong.
So, whether you’re looking for a new career path, running a business that relies on supply chains, or just want to make sure your packages arrive on time, this is a win for everyone.
Stay tuned, stay compliant, and keep those wheels rolling!
Gain exclusive access to our CDL & DOT Compliance articles with a trial at DOTDocs.com. And don’t forget to claim your FREE micro audit at THE ECLIPSE DOT MICRO AUDIT. Ready for seamless operations? Discover the difference today!
Sources:
Governor DeWine Awards 35 Industry Sector Partnerships to Boost Workforce Collaboration
Ohio Supply Chain Academic Network Strengthens Workforce
Ohio Trucking Association’s Legislative Wins for CDL Training
Ohio Grant Supports Supply Chain Workforce Growth