The Port Authority expanded its focus to celebrate the next generation of skilled talent, with 20 welding and machining seniors from the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center selected to participate in a series of educational tours at leading county manufacturers, including Buckeye Trailer in Leetonia, Compco in Columbiana and SteelCon in Rogers.

The goal of these tours was to give students a firsthand look at the wide range of high-quality career opportunities available in Columbiana County. Company leaders shared insights on the skills they value in future employees, offered guidance on the interview process and opened their facilities to showcase what modern manufacturing careers look like in action.

During the tour of SteelCon, the company presented a $15,000 donation to CCCTC representatives to support the school’s machining and welding programs, which will directly benefit students pursuing technical careers and strengthen the county’s workforce pipeline.

The Port Authority also learned that one of the participating CCCTC students was hired by SteelCon shortly after the tour, showing the direct impact of connecting students with local employers.

Students in the machining and welding programs at the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center visit Compco in Columbiana. (Photo provided by the Columbiana County Port Authority

During the month, the CCPA honored local manufacturers by inviting community leaders to submit nominations for standout companies making an impact. Based on the nominations, Haltec of Leetonia, Compco of Columbiana, SteelCon of Rogers, A Plus Powder Coaters of Columbiana, and Buckeye Trailers of Leetonia were selected for a social media spotlight. Each company also received a commemorative plaque to recognize their contributions to the region’s economic vitality.

“Manufacturing is such a critical part of Columbiana County’s economy and out long-term success, ” CCPA Executive Director Brittany Smith said. “We are proud to support and celebrate the companies, educators and students who make this sector so strong. A special thank you to our local community leaders for their nominations, the wonderful businesses that participated in this event and our partners at CCCTC for their support. This year’s Manufacturing Month initiatives highlight not only the excellence of our existing manufacturers but also the bright future of the industry right here at home.”

A SteelCon worker introduces machining and welding students to the equipment used by the Rogers manufacturer. (Photo provided by the Columbiana County Port Authority)

Representatives of SteelCon present a check for $15,000 to the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center to support the machining and welding programs during a visit to the Rogers facility last month for Manufacturing Month. (Photo provided by the Columbiana County Port Authority)