A resource designed to help businesses in Ashtabula, Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana counties navigate the talent landscape and tap into regional education and training assets is available.

Lake to River Economic Development announced last week the release of its 2025 Workforce, Education and Training Guide.

In related news, Lake to River set the date for its first Regional Talent Summit. The event will take place 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at the Eastwood Event Centre. Business leaders, employers, educators and workforce partners from throughout the region are encouraged to attend.

The workforce guide brings together critical workforce development resources in one centralized document, making it easier for employers to upskill workers, attract new talent and build a workforce that meets evolving industry demands.

“Workforce is a central pillar to economic development,” said Matt Falter, director of talent engagement at Lake to River. “This guide reflects our commitment to solving talent challenges head-on by connecting businesses with the education and training partners that can make a real difference today and into the future.”

As JobsOhio’s newest regional network partner, Lake to River helps link employers with labor market insights, funding opportunities and talent pipeline strategies. The organization also convenes the Regional Workforce Coalition, a collaborative of local educators, training providers, employers and economic development leaders focused on closing talent gaps.

“Our 2025 guide is more than a directory — it’s a workforce strategy tool,” said Alexa Sweeney Blackann, interim CEO of Lake to River. “Whether you’re a small business looking to grow or a manufacturer expanding operations, we’ve assembled the people and programs that can help you move forward with confidence. It’s all part of our mission to drive sustainable economic development through talent.”

The guide includes profiles of regional career and technical education centers, community colleges, workforce training programs and industry-specific resources that reflect the current and future needs of employers across sectors such as advanced manufacturing, health care, logistics and more.

To download the guide, visit

laketoriverohio.org.