Work-Based Learning: Takeaways from the University Business Summit  

The quick background: A new piece of legislation, House Bill 96, calls on Ohio’s public two- and four-year colleges and universities to expand co-op and internship programs that connect students’ coursework to their intended careers. The 2026-27 academic year will serve as a pilot year, with the requirement formally beginning in 2027-28.  

Why it matters: While many institutions have long-standing co-op and internship programs, this legislation establishes a baseline of requirements and data collection that the Department of Higher Education can utilize to further improve the talent pipelines across the state. JobsOhio, Ohio Chamber and National Federation of Independent Businesses to ensure employers are supporting the effort to improve long-term career building opportunities for students – and build a larger talent pool for employers. 

How we know: We were joined by Alex Penrod and Sri Vidya Uppalapati from the Ohio Department of Higher Education at this year’s University Business Summit who provided a deep dive into the legislation’s requirements and roll out of the new initiative.  

Get involved: Pernod and Uppalapati stressed the importance of creating both supply and demand for workforce-based opportunities, meaning that it is equally important for employers to connect with institutions to offer up opportunities. But it doesn’t have to stop there, businesses can also mentor students, advise on curriculum, support capstone projects or help institutions better understand the skills they need from future employees. They are also working on resources to support smaller organizations as they look to participate and develop their own talent pipelines.   

For more information about local resources to develop your work-based programs or connect with regional higher education institutions, reach out to Dominica Brantley, University Partnerships Manager, at dbrantley@cincinnatichamber.com.