Ohio Career Planning

Launch your career in Ohio's diverse economy with strategic planning, industry connections, and comprehensive preparation for professional success.

Ohio's Key Industries

Manufacturing

Leading manufacturing state with automotive, steel, and advanced production

+8%
Job Growth
$65,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

General Motors
Ford
Honda
Goodyear

Key Skills:

Technical expertise
Quality control
Process improvement
Safety protocols
Healthcare

Major medical centers and healthcare systems throughout Ohio

+15%
Job Growth
$70,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

Cleveland Clinic
Ohio State Wexner
Cincinnati Children's
ProMedica

Key Skills:

Clinical experience
Patient care
Medical technology
Research skills
Technology

Growing tech sector including software, data centers, and innovation

+18%
Job Growth
$85,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

JPMorgan Chase Tech
Cardinal Health
American Electric Power
Battelle

Key Skills:

Programming
Data analysis
Cybersecurity
Innovation mindset
Aerospace

Major aerospace and defense contractors with advanced manufacturing

+12%
Job Growth
$90,000+
Avg Salary

Major Employers:

GE Aviation
Boeing
Lockheed Martin
NASA Glenn

Key Skills:

Engineering expertise
Project management
Quality assurance
Technical innovation

Career Development Resources

Ohio Career Centers

Statewide career development and job placement services

All Ohio regions
Career counseling
Job placement
Skills training
Industry connections
Co-op Programs

Extensive cooperative education programs with Ohio employers

Major universities
Paid work experience
Industry exposure
Skill development
Career exploration
Alumni Networks

Strong professional connections throughout Ohio and nationally

All institutions
Mentorship programs
Job referrals
Industry insights
Professional development
Innovation Hubs

Growing startup ecosystem and entrepreneurship support

Major cities
Business incubators
Startup accelerators
Funding opportunities
Mentorship

Four-Year Career Preparation Timeline

Freshman Year

Exploration & Discovery

Discover interests and build foundation

Key Activities:

Career assessments
Major exploration
Campus involvement
Skill building
Sophomore Year

Skill Development

Develop relevant skills and network

Key Activities:

Declare major
Leadership roles
Career fairs
Professional development
Junior Year

Experience & Networking

Gain practical experience

Key Activities:

Internships/co-ops
Research projects
Professional connections
Portfolio building
Senior Year

Career Launch

Successfully launch career

Key Activities:

Job applications
Graduate school prep
Interview skills
Transition planning

Ohio Career Outlook by Field

Engineering

$65,000 - $110,000
High Demand

Healthcare

$55,000 - $140,000
Very High Demand

Manufacturing

$50,000 - $95,000
High Demand

Technology

$70,000 - $130,000
Very High Demand

Education

$40,000 - $75,000
Moderate Demand

Business

$50,000 - $100,000
High Demand

Ready to Launch Your Ohio Career?

Use CollegeCompass to connect your college experience with career success in Ohio's thriving economy.