Our Workforce

There exists a vibrant and competitive job market in Richland County. There’s a high demand for registered nurses and nursing assistants, manufacturing data analysts and engineers, as well as industrial and construction labor. Domestic and international companies have chosen to invest in the area because of the quality of the workforce and the classic Midwestern work ethic.

There is a multitude of apprenticeship opportunities in Richland County, ranging from tool and die to masonry. With over 250 people currently enrolled, apprentice sponsors continue to meet the skill gap that exists nationwide.

The manufacturing sector collectively employs the largest number of people (10,000+), while OhioHealth is the single largest employer in the county with 2,500 employees.

Richland County by the Numbers

  • There are currently 54,000 people in the workforce in Richland County
  • Population is over 124,000 and has shown an uptick in recent years
  • We have a regional labor shed of 50 miles, which includes 1.3M people and 560,000 workers
  • 56% of Richland County’s population is between the ages of 18 and 65, with the largest outlier being under 18 (21%)
  • The population is split, 51% male and 49% female
  • Minority groups make up 11% of the overall population
  • There are 10,000 veterans in the county
  • Median household income is $44,138, with 13% of the population living below the poverty line
  • 87% of the Richland County’s population (25 and over) have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • 17% hold a Bachelor’s Degree
  • 9% have either an Associate’s Degree or a skill-specific post secondary certification

Schools

There are nine public school systems and three private schools in Richland County. North Central State College has an enrollment of over 3,000 and Ohio State Mansfield maintains around 1,500 students. Madison Adult Career Center and Pioneer Career and Technology Center provide upskilling and career training to over 200 adults each year. All of Richland County’s Educational Partners strive to identify the skills that are needed within our region and maintain programs to meet the ongoing skill demand.