Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announces $5.6 million in funding to Terra State Community College
By Sheri Trusty, Seneca County Media Relations Coordinator
On Sept. 11, Lt. Governor Jon Husted visited Terra State Community College to announce $5.6 million in state funding for expansion and upgrades to the school’s Skilled Trades and Automation Technologies (STAT) Hub inside the Engineering Technologies building. Husted, who spoke during the “Investing in a Stronger Workforce” ceremony, said the funds would help turn Terra into a “world-class training facility,” as part of workforce development initiatives in the governor’s office.
“We think this is going to be transformative,” Husted said. “It will not only better serve the employers and people who live in this community, but it will be attractive to new businesses.”
Terra Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Robert Cordell, said the funds are restricted for advanced manufacturing use. The money is being utilized for robotics, manufacturing and CNC equipment, as well as support improvements, such as new flooring that was necessary to ensure an even foundation for accurate calibration on the equipment.
“We upgraded to LED lighting because it was very dim in here, and we redid the compressed air system,” Cordell said.
The funds were approved for Terra thanks to the efforts of State Senator Bill Reineke and State Representative Gary Click. Click said it was an honor to work with Governor Mike DeWine and Husted to help bring the funds to Terra.
“When I tour manufacturing facilities here in Ohio, people are looking to Terra State Community College to provide training, to provide the skills, and to provide workers that are going to be necessary for them not just to survive, but to thrive,” Click said.
Click recognized the strong leadership of Terra State President, Dr. Ronald Schumacher, and his board and staff for creating a college that offers exceptional educational opportunities for students of all ages.
“Terra is deep in my heart,” Click said. “I’m going to continue working with the administration. I’m going to continue working with my colleagues, and we’re going to continue to bring resources back here to Terra State Community College.”
Reineke was grateful to be a part of the effort that brought $5.6 million in state funding to Terra State, and he praised the school for its dedication to opening doors that allow local youths to discover their futures.
“I want to thank all of you for the efforts you put in to help our young kids find their purpose,” Reineke said.
Several Tiffin area dignitaries attended the ceremony, including Seneca County Commissioner Bill Frankart and Tiffin Mayor Lee Wilkinson.
“Terra State Community College impacts the futures of area residents and the sustainability of local business. This $5.6 million in funding will help further that impact,” Frankart said. “I am grateful Senator Reineke and Representative Click partnered with Governor DeWine and Lt. Governor Husted to bring this money back to our area.”
Some of the upgrades are in place, and the new equipment will be ready for students to use soon. The entire expansion project is expected to be completed in Spring, 2026.