Tri-C Launches New Bridge Program To Fuel Manufacturing Careers

Affordable pathway builds on associate degrees to meet Northeast Ohio's industry demand

CLEVELAND — Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C^®) has launched a new Preparatory Bridge Program to help job seekers and working professionals build upon their associate degrees as they work toward thriving manufacturing careers.

Open to individuals with technical or nontechnical associate degrees, the program supports grads in advancing toward a bachelor's in Integrated Digital Manufacturing. It prepares students to complete the third and fourth years of the applied bachelor’s degree by offering industry-relevant training in areas such as automation, robotics, operations, cybersecurity and leadership — key competencies in today's rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.

Students can gain real-world experience and earn a bachelor's degree at a fraction of the cost of four-year universities. The program also supports career advancement, offering a practical path for employees aiming to move from frontline roles into supervisory and leadership positions.

"Manufacturing is Northeast Ohio's economic engine — and companies are eager for talent that understands both the technical and operational sides of their business," said Ray Nejadfard, the dean of Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering. "This program is about connecting a person's existing education with new opportunities."

Cuyahoga County has the state's highest concentration of manufacturing employment, home to more than 1,600 companies employing nearly 70,000 workers. Ohio ranks as the third-largest manufacturing state in the country, with the industry standing as its top economic driver.

Employers increasingly seek workers who can navigate both IT systems and mechanical processes while managing teams and operations.

For more information, visit the Preparatory Bridge Program website.

July 11, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu