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Mission

Mission:

The mission of the Fostoria Learning Center (FLC) is to Upskill, Uplift, and Expose individuals by partnering with businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to deliver high-quality training and development opportunities. Together, we empower people with the skills, certifications, and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s dynamic workforce, driving economic growth and fostering long-term success for our region.

Vision:

Our vision is to be the leading hub of workforce development in Northwest Ohio, recognized for our innovative partnerships that deliver top-tier training and education. By collaborating with industry leaders and educational providers, we strive to create a flexible, inclusive learning environment that equips individuals with the tools they need to excel in an ever-changing economy and contribute to the community’s prosperity.

Overview

Established in 2017 as a result of a collaborative effort by local business leaders, the Fostoria Learning Center addresses the urgent need for a well-prepared and highly skilled workforce. With an investment of $3.8 million, including $800,000 from the Ohio State Capital Improvements Budget, the FLC serves as a modern training facility in the heart of downtown Fostoria. Formerly a vacant grocery store, the FLC was transformed into a state-of-the-art learning environment, designed for flexibility to meet the workforce demands of today and tomorrow.

At the FLC, with our top-tier training and education partners, we offer a wide range of programs that cater to current employees, underemployed populations, and students from K-12 to adult learners. Our facility boasts specialized labs for welding, industrial maintenance, medical training, and construction, alongside classrooms, meeting spaces, and a mobile training capability.

The FLC operates on three key pillars:

  • Upskill: Providing targeted training for incumbent workers, helping businesses retain talent and increase productivity.
  • Uplift: Focusing on underserved populations, we offer short-term credential programs to equip individuals with the skills they need to succeed.
  • Expose: Engaging the next generation through initiatives like career fairs and hands-on activities that introduce students to local industries and career opportunities.

Through these efforts, the FLC has expanded its reach across five counties in Northwest Ohio, serving over 62 organizations/companies in 2022 and 2023. Our commitment to local workforce development drives us to continue growing, adapting, and fostering collaboration for the betterment of our community.