Commissioners discuss airport strategy, consultant RFP and regional workforce-apprenticeship models

Commissioners discussed airport strategy and workforce development during an extended agenda segment. Speaker 1 summarized the Ohio Airport Strategy dashboard and said the county airport was rated Level 3 because it lacks certain automated landing instrumentation. Commissioners emphasized using an RFP to clarify a development-focused master plan (services, FBO amenities, flight instruction) rather than a narrow facilities-only document.

The board discussed near-term opportunities to add flight instruction and FBO services to boost airport activity and fuel revenues. Speakers named a recently certified flight instructor (Ellie Harper) and suggested the county pursue flight‑instructor recruitment and FBO service expansions to increase airport use.

Separately, Speaker 9 delivered a detailed presentation on workforce development, urging a four-year apprenticeship model for trades (20% classroom, 80% on‑the‑job training). He described regional efforts — including IEC (electrical contractors), Pickaway Works and a Fairfield County pilot — and urged coordination of educators, private contractors and workforce agencies (WIOA) to develop curriculum, vet instructors and use underutilized facilities for training.

Commissioners asked staff to share consultant lists, RFP language and to coordinate with vocational schools and regional workforce partners on training pathways that connect K‑12, vocational programs and adult apprenticeship models. No formal procurement decisions were made; staff were asked to return with RFP drafts and consultant comparisons.