Workforce and Talent Attraction Strategies
Capabilities
CRD uses rigorous, detailed labor data to assist communities and companies in developing workforce and talent attraction strategies. In the event of a large-scale employer opening a new plant or closing an existing facility, it is vital to have actionable data and strategies to target workforce development and training resources. Particularly during these challenging times, it is critical for regions and communities to understand the characteristics of the workforce and where gaps in skills or training may occur.
Our Projects
Northwest Ohio Workforce Strategy & Recovery Plan
The Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded CRD a $555,000 CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant to develop a workforce strategy and recovery plan for a four-county region that includes Lucas, Wood, Ottawa and Fulton Counties. The plan is to develop a set of metrics first and then develop a plan. The planning process will also result in the development of a Northwest Ohio workforce dashboard and user guide, workforce assets GIS-based mapping tool and user guide, and workforce development events calendar.
Hardin County Manufacturing Workforce Study
The CRD team analyzed employment in Hardin County with an emphasis on the manufacturing industry sector and production occupations. The study provided a comprehensive look at the demographic, workforce, and industry issues facing Hardin County’s manufacturing sector and provided insight into strengthening its local economy. The assessment included detailed data, such as worker age distributions for the top five industries in Hardin County and anticipated demand for occupations.
4CG Regional Strategic Workforce & Economic Development Strategy
CRD partnered with Poggemeyer Design Group (PDG) on a workforce and economic development planning effort for a group of four counties in northwest Ohio: Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky and Seneca. The Ottawa County Department of Job and Family Services used WIOA Rapid Response funds from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) for the project. CRD provided labor and demographic data and analytics, in addition to assisting with focus group facilitation. CRD also developed a Talent Attraction Implementation Plan for the effort, which included strategies for targeting workforce resources for three key industries in the region.
CRD can partner with your community or business!
Updated: 08/20/2025 11:25AM