In a job market such as Ohio’s, sometimes the toughest part is making the right connections. But the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services is working on that, for those hoping to work in the skilled trades. Pre-registration has begun, but will continue until the statewide virtual job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 22.

“We often hear from employers that they need skilled workers, and this job fair will be an excellent way for them to find great candidates,” ODJFS Director Matt Damschroder said.

With more than 50 employers registered to participate, chances are good that the right candidates will find spots as welders, mechanics, carpenters, electricians, tool and die makers, plumbers, insulators, programmers and other fields.

But what if you aren’t yet “skilled” in those trades? What if you have not yet chosen a career path?

There are programs available to help with that, too. Try apprentice.ohio.gov to start.

“An apprentice is someone 16 or older who is learning a career from a skilled worker and earning while they learn, all without student loan debt!” the site says. “Each program includes a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of classroom instruction each year.”

Get the right training, for an in-demand job, with no student debt, through a program that could then help connect you with an employer. If you are trying to decide on next steps, ODJFS is a great place to start.