In 2024, CFAES received a $4.9 million National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grant to train 100 climate-ready workers in Ohio’s Lake Erie region. More than 24 partners — from universities and agencies to nonprofits and technology companies — joined to teach stormwater management, water science and data skills that protect our water resources.
This year, CFAES faculty trained five college students and 20 community members, placing three trainees in summer internships focused on fostering cross-community understanding.
Students learned people-centered engineering — blending sustainability, teamwork and real-world impact. Trainees gained hands-on experience managing complex projects and communicating research — strengthening water resilience and job opportunities in both rural and urban areas.