In the Region - April 2, 2026 | Volume 11, Issue 13
ARC NEWS
Expanding Modern Manufacturing Possibilities in Ohio 🧰
In Tuscarawas and surrounding counties in Appalachian Ohio, a broad base of manufacturers continues to grow each year.
To support these businesses and expand manufacturing employment opportunities for local residents, ARC invested $292K in Kent State University at Tuscarawas' Multi-County Advanced Manufacturing Corridor project. Students and workers will benefit from a range of improvements to educational opportunities, including access to cutting-edge manufacturing tools.
By 2027, the project is expected to train nearly 700 students and 70 workers in robotics and other advanced manufacturing techniques. 🤖 The strengthened talent pipeline will help serve at least eight local manufacturers in the eight-county corridor.
Learn more about the project.
One Week Until Annual Conference Registration ⌛
The countdown is on! Registration for our 2026 Annual Conference, Appalachia Builds: Breaking New Ground for Economic Growth, will open on April 9, 2026.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from successful economic development efforts across the Appalachian Region.
Seats at this conference go fast, so don't forget to visit ARC.gov on April 9 to get yours.
COMMUNITY
What’s so cool about manufacturing? Nineteen Southwest Pennsylvaniamiddle schoolers explored that question in a Catalyst Connection video contest, showcasing ways to draw new attention to advanced manufacturing careers. 🧑‍đźŹ
This week, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrissey signed a bill into law that will create the state's first Office of Entrepreneurship. đź’Ľ Statewide economic development leaders will partner together through the new office to make starting businesses easier for residents.
A new physical rehabilitation hospital in South Point, Ohio, is scheduled to open later this year, offering residents access to a variety of physical, occupational and speech therapies. ⚕️ ARC invested $680K in the wastewater system that will serve the facility.
APPALACHIA IN THE NEWS
Northern Appalachia
Duquesne University opens new nursing simulation lab thanks to $4M gift, Pittsburgh Business Times
Natural gas expansion project in Bradford County receives nearly $878K in funding, Pennsylvania Business Report
Central Appalachia
Healthcare training simulation lab opens in VA higher ed center, Bristol Herald Courier
Museum of Appalachia joins celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, WATE
TN leaders discuss boosting rural economies through Opportunity Zones, WATE
William King Museum of Art receives $300K to finish project, WJHL
Southern Appalachia
