Exploring Workforce Skills of Northwest Ohio High School Graduates

Jason Hedrick; Greg  Homan; Jeff  Dick; Mark  Light

Authors

Jason Hedrick Extension Educator Ohio State University Extension, Putnam County 219 S Oak Street, PO Box 189, Ottawa, Ohio 45875
Greg Homan Assistant Professor Wright State University Lake Campus 7600 Lake Campus Drive, Celina, OH 45822
Jeff Dick Extension Educator Ohio State University Extension, Williams County 1122 West High Street, Bryan, Ohio 43506
Mark Light Extension Educator & Assistant Professor Ohio State University Extension, Hardin County One Courthouse Square, Suite 40, Kenton, Ohio 43326

Abstract

This study analyzes workforce competencies at the conclusion of high school graduation. Researchers sampled over 875
graduating seniors from 16 high schools within six counties throughout Northwestern Ohio. Results highlight future career and
educational goals of these young people and a self-report of skills based on the SCANS competencies and basic foundation skills.
When evaluating Foundation Skills of Personal Qualities, Basic Skills, and Thinking Skills, they indicated highest ratings in Personal
Qualities and overall lowest ratings in Basic Skills. A series of five Workforce Competencies were also evaluated, including Using
Resources, Using Information, Using Technology, Interpersonal Skills, and Working in Systems. Highest ratings for Competencies were
reported in Interpersonal Skills and lowest in Using Resources.