Image
Preparing individuals to integrate into the workforce through responsive training that meets the current needs of key regional industries.
Empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners through innovative business development training and opportunities that create pathways to career mobility and long-term success.
Connecting industry with a professional, well-trained, and skilled workforce.
Central State University's Workforce Training & Business Development Center offers participants free training, industry-recognized certification programs, and business development resources designed to meet today’s workforce needs. The Center supports job seekers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and community members with practical skills, career preparation, and opportunities that strengthen both individual success and regional economic growth.
We offer a wide-range of workshops and certificate courses – both in-person and online.
Through hands-on learning, supportive instruction, and community-centered programs, CSU's Workforce Training & Business Development Center helps participants build confidence and prepares them for meaningful careers in a changing workforce. Whether you are looking to advance your professional career, launch a business, or develop new skills, our programs are designed to help you move forward and connect with new opportunities.
Mission: To empower individuals and communities by delivering accessible, high-quality workforce training that builds in-demand skills, expands career pathways, and supports economic mobility.
Vision: To be a leading driver of workforce innovation and inclusive economic growth, thereby preparing a diverse talent pipeline equipped to thrive in high-demand industries and strengthen economies in communities across Ohio and beyond.
Launch Your Career with In Demand Skills—Faster
Ready to grow your skills or pivot your career? Central State University offers FREE on-line classes through Coursera for in-demand training—from Professional Certificates to micro-credentials—taught by experts at Google, Meta, IBM, Microsoft, and more. With hands-on learning and real-world projects, you’ll build job-ready skills that can lead to promotions, new roles, and higher earning potential—often in less time than traditional pathways. This opportunity is available to residents of Montgomery, Clark, and Greene counties.
Explore FREE on-line certification programs in areas such as:
- Google Data Analytics
- IBM Data Science
- Meta Social Media Marketing
- Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst
- Google UX Design
- Google Project Management
- Digital Marketing & E-Commerce
- Python for Everybody
- Business Foundations (Wharton)
- AI for Everyone
Take the next step—register to receive more information about Coursera and start building your future.
Start your career journey with industry-leading, skills-first training that gets you job ready
Central State University has collaborated with a top-rated online learning platform to bring you an unparalleled opportunity to hone your skills and gain hands-on experience in high-growth areas.
The best part? It’s absolutely free for residents of Montgomery, Clark, and Greene counties in Ohio, and there are no prerequisites!
With an array of more than 40 in-demand careers to choose from, you can fast-track your way to a successful career in no time. Don't miss out on this unique chance to embark on a fulfilling career journey.
You do not need to be enrolled as a student at Central State to take these certification courses. Learn for free at your own pace!
Transform your career with Central State University Workforce Training and Business Development Center's exceptional certificate programs! Upon completion, you'll receive a professional certificate in workforce development and upskilling. Plus, you can earn multiple stackable certificates, boosting your qualifications and unlocking new career opportunities. Don't miss out on this chance to take your career to new heights! Enroll today and start your journey toward a thriving future.
Certificates available now
Check out our growing list of courses available and read on for more details! Courses include the following: Cybersecurity Professional, IT Support Specialist, Data Analyst, Project Manager, UX Designer, Social Media Marketer, Data Scientist, Sales Development Representative, Application Developer, iOS Developer, Android Developer, Bookkeeper, Sales Operations Specialist, Data Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Mainframe Developer, Digital Marketer, Sales Representative, Front-End Developer, Back-End Developer, Technology Consultant, Career Coach, IT Project Manager, Solutions Architect, Customer Service Representative, Network Engineer, Human Resources Specialist, Business Intelligence Analyst, and Data Warehouse Developer. Register now to learn more!
Who will you become?
Discover your skills
Are you looking to build a successful career? Look no further! With 34 in-demand careers to choose from, you can fast-track your way to success in no time. Don't miss out on this unique chance to embark on a fulfilling career journey. Enroll now!
Featured programs
- IT Support Specialist
- Cybersecurity Professional
- Data Analyst
- Social Media Marketer
- Digital Marketer
- Marketing Analyst
IT Support Specialist
Get certified by Google and IBM with our program! You'll learn to troubleshoot tech issues and ensure equipment runs smoothly. Join us if you love helping people and problem solving.
Cybersecurity Professional
Learn to protect organizations from cyber threats and disruptions with our course. Perfect for problem solvers who enjoy technical challenges and attention to detail. Gain credentials from Microsoft, IBM, and Google.
Data Analyst
In today's data-driven world, it's crucial to collect, organize, and transform data to make informed decisions. With credentials from both Google and IBM, you can be confident in your ability to excel in this field.
Social Media Marketer
As a social media specialist, you have the power to build and manage a company's online presence, connecting with people and keeping up with the latest trends. With credentials like Meta, you'll have the tools you need to make a real impact.
Digital Marketer
Enroll now in our Digital Marketing course and earn a certificate. Develop effective strategies for online business growth and advance your career.
Marketing Analyst
Earn your certification in Digital Marketing and become an expert in leveraging data to help companies market their products or services effectively. Perfect for those who love numbers, people, and teamwork.
For career starters or switchers
If you are looking for in-demand, entry-level jobs, you've come to the right place. Central State University, Ohio's only public Historically Black University and 1890 Land-Grant Institution, now offers training to advance your career. Join thousands of learners, and get on the fast-track to a successful career.
Check out the opportunities below, and register now to get started!
Note: Classes are available for you to work independently online or in person at the CSU Workforce Training and Business Development Center at CSU-Dayton. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday.
-
Develop strategies to protect organizations from cyber-attacks and disruptions. This course is best suited for those who like problem solving, technical challenges, and attention to detail. Credentials: Microsoft, IBM, Google
$119,700 media salary*
147,973 jobs available*
-
Evaluate and troubleshoot technology issues so equipment runs smoothly. If you like helping people, problem solving, and troubleshooting, this is the certificate for you! Credentials: Google, IBM
$56,200 median salary*
318,249 jobs available*
-
Collect, organize, and transform data to make informed decisions. This provides a solid foundation for those who enjoy attention to detail, problem solving, and working with numbers.
Credentials: Google, IBM
$90,500 median salary*
82,489 jobs available*
-
Oversee the planning and execution of projects to ensure they're successful. If you like leading a team, problem solving, and community, sign up now! Credentials: Google, IBM
$102,800 median salary*
336,402 jobs available*
-
Make digital and physical products easier and more enjoyable to use. This course is great for those who like understanding people, thinking creatively, and problem solving. Credentials: Google
$121,200 median salary*
70,778 jobs available*
-
Social media specialists establish, build, and manage a company's social media. Great if you like engaging with people, following trends, and thinking creatively. Credentials: Meta
$50,000 median salary*
22,146 jobs available*
-
Extract and analyze data to make informed business decisions. If you like working with numbers, writing, and communication and are intellectually curious, this certificate would be a great fit for you. Credentials: IBM
$138,100 median salary*
69,304 jobs available*
-
Work with prospective customers to help them in their buying journey. Great if you like engaging with people, building relationships, and understanding people. Credentials: Salesforce
$64,900 median salary*
51,277 jobs available*
-
Analyze customer needs and design systems and solutions for the cloud. If your talents are managing projects, learning new technologies, and problem solving, this is the course for you. Credentials: IBM.
$114,600 median salary*
66,200 jobs available
-
Build and write code for mobile apps hosted on iOS, an operating system used on Apple devices like the iPhone and iPad. Great if you like creative challenges, building better user experiences, and using Apple products. Credentials: Meta
$140,200 median salary*
11,382 jobs available*
-
Build and write code for mobile apps hosted on Android smartphones and mobile tablets. If you like creative challenges, building better user experiences, and using Android products, this is the course for you. Credentials: Meta
$141,200 median salary*
12,048 jobs available*
-
Record financial transactions and manage financial records. Earn credentials from Intuit and Tally Bookkeeping. Great if you like working with numbers, attention to detail, and writing and organization. Credentials: Intuit Academy Bookkeeping and Tally Bookkeeper
$45,700 median salary*
296,935 jobs available*
-
Create strategies that support sales teams to optimize growth while earning credentials from Salesforce. Great if you like leading a team, troubleshooting, and efficiency. Credentials: Salesforce
$49,000 median salary*
13,423 jobs available*
-
Design and build systems to collect and transform data into usable information for data science. Great if you like working with numbers, identifying patterns, and problem solving. Credentials: Meta and IBM.
$130,000 median salary*
74,302 jobs available*
-
Perform research and gather data to help companies market their products or services. If you like working with numbers, understanding people, and collaborating, check out this course. Credentials: Meta
$87,400 median salary*
5,645 jobs available*
-
Build the tools and infrastructure to allow companies to maintain and improve their platform. Great if you like building tools, problem solving, and collaborating. Credentials: IBM
$135,000 median salary*
49,598 jobs available*
-
Design and build systems to collect, transform, and store data for companies' Business Intelligence. This is the course for those who enjoy building tools, identifying patterns, and problem solving. Credentials: IBM
$76,200 median salary*
33,429 jobs available*
-
Develop and maintain applications and systems for high-performance computers. Great for those who like collaborating, learning new technologies, and troubleshooting. Credentials: IBM
$117,000 median salary*
7,673 jobs available*
-
Define and develop digital strategies to deliver business growth through online channels. Great if you like working with numbers, understanding people, and problem solving. Credentials: Google
$61,300 median salary*
81,463 jobs available*
-
Analyze sales activity to advise on ways to increase sales. Great if you like engaging with people, building relationships, and understanding people. Credentials: HubSpot
$60,100 median salary*
728,054 jobs available*
-
Design and develop the look, feel, function, and user experience of a website. This is the course for you if you like problem solving, thinking creatively, and creating great user experiences. Credentials: Meta, IBM
$130,900 median salary*
29,258 jobs available*
-
Build the structures that help websites function using industry-standard tools and programming systems. Great if you like thinking logically, solving complex problems, and collaborating. Credentials: Meta, IBM
$148,400 median salary*
28,403 jobs available*
-
Provide clients with strategic guidance on the use of technology to help them meet their business objectives. Great if you like strategic thinking, improving processes, and technology. Credentials: SAP Technology Consultant, AWS Cloud Technology Consultant
$104,300 median salary*
102,622 jobs available*
-
Help individuals plan their career choices through goal setting, job search guidance, workplace skills development, and more. This is the course for you if you like helping others, communication, and strategy. Credentials: Goodwill Career Coach and Navigator
$48,000 median salary*
29,407 jobs available*
-
Oversee IT projects, ensuring they are completed within set timeframes and budgets. This is the course for you if you like leading a team, problem solving, and technology. Credentials: IBM
$120,200 median salary*
117,312 jobs available*
-
Work closely with clients to implement and support solutions, ensure customer success, and minimize service disruptions. Great if you like technology, problem solving, and collaboration. Credentials: Akamai Customer Consulting and Support
$122,800 median salary*
14,614 jobs available*
-
Troubleshoot, communicate, and maintain records to provide quality service and identify upselling opportunities. Great if you like helping others, problem solving, and creating positive experiences. Credentials: CVS Health
$37,600 median salary*
826,296 jobs available*
-
Monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain networks in a 24/7 environment to sustain stability and security. This is the course for you if you like technology, problem solving, and analytical thinking. Credentials: Akamai Customer Consulting and Support
$80,300 median salary*
22,972 jobs available*
-
Recruit and place individuals within an organization, interpret policies, and address employee relations matters. Great if you like working with people, communication, and problem solving. Credentials: HRCI Human Resource Associate
$52,100 median salary*
91,953 jobs available*
-
Make data-driven decisions through SQL-based data extraction, dashboard creation, and report analysis for an organization. Great if you like data analysis, problem solving, and strategy. Credentials: Microsoft
$110,000 median salary*
76,679 jobs available*
*Median salary and job-opening data are sourced from United States Lightcast™ Job Postings Report. Data for job relevant to featured programs (1/1/22-12/31/22).
In-Person Programs & Training
CSU's Workforce Training & Business Development Center offers training, hands-on workshops, and industry-recognized certification programs designed to prepare participants for today’s in-demand careers. Through practical skill development, workplace readiness training, internship opportunities, and career placement support, participants gain the tools and confidence needed to move into meaningful employment and long-term career success.
-
This certification pathway introduces participants to the exciting world of app development using Apple Swift and iOS technologies. Through Apple’s “Develop in Swift Explorations” curriculum, participants build foundational coding and problem-solving skills while exploring how apps shape the way people live, work, and connect every day.
-
The workshops will cover responsible and ethical use of AI orientation; Microsoft Excel and cloud collaboration training; AI-assisted website and mobile app development. Prerequisite class: Responsible and Ethical Use of AI Orientation.
-
This hands-on workshop equips water and wastewater professionals with the skills to identify energy waste, conduct systematic audits, and implement cost-effective efficiency improvements across treatment operations. Participants will learn to analyze energy consumption patterns in pumps, blowers, aeration systems, and process controls—then translate findings into actionable upgrade plans with measurable ROI. The course combines real-world case studies with practical audit tools, preparing attendees to reduce operating costs while maintaining treatment performance and regulatory compliance.
-
The workshop equips participants with practical skills in environmental compliance and regulatory frameworks. Participants will learn permitting processes, auditing techniques, and best practices for managing environmental risks. The program is ideal for professionals seeking to strengthen sustainability efforts and regulatory knowledge within their organizations.
-
The workshop provides hands-on training in modern manufacturing processes and engineering technologies. Participants will explore key areas such as CNC machining, robotics, additive manufacturing, welding, and quality control through practical, skills-based instruction. This workshop is ideal for individuals seeking to build technical expertise and advance careers in advanced manufacturing and engineering fields.
-
The workshop provides foundational training in water treatment systems and water quality management. Participants will learn about water sources, treatment processes, and regulatory requirements that ensure safe and reliable drinking water. This workshop is ideal for individuals seeking to build knowledge and skills for careers in water utilities, environmental management, or public health.
-
The workshop provides foundational training in wastewater treatment processes and system operations. Participants will learn how treatment systems manage and treat wastewater while exploring methods for recovering valuable resources and ensuring regulatory compliance. This workshop is ideal for individuals seeking to build skills for careers in water management, environmental services, or public infrastructure.
-
Step into one of today’s fastest-growing industries with a workforce-focused certificate program designed to prepare you for careers in semiconductors and microelectronics. As demand for skilled talent continues to rise nationwide, this 30-credit program gives participants the hands-on training, industry knowledge, and real-world experience needed to succeed in a rapidly expanding field.
-
The workshop offers hands-on training in water quality, treatment systems, and certification preparation. Participants gain practical knowledge through applied demonstrations and instruction focused on real-world water management challenges. This series is ideal for individuals seeking to build skills for careers in water utilities, environmental services, and infrastructure management.
-
Led by experienced instructors, these weekly workshops cover everything entrepreneurs need to succeed -- from writing a business plan and understanding your cash flow, to building your brand online, attracting customers, and mastering the pitch that wins investors. Topics for 2026 include financial literacy, social media marketing, fundraising strategies, forecasting, project management, leadership, and much more.
About the Center
The Workforce Training and Business Development Center at Central State University–Dayton serves as a vital bridge between education, industry, and community, delivering accessible, high-quality training designed to prepare individuals for success in today’s evolving job market. Rooted in Central State University’s 1890 land-grant mission, the Center focuses on expanding opportunity for historically underserved and underemployed populations by providing free and low-cost programs that build practical skills, industry-recognized credentials, and clear career pathways. Participants gain hands-on experience in high-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing, information technology, environmental management, and entrepreneurship, supported by expert faculty and state-of-the-art resources.
Through short-term certifications, workforce workshops, and pathways to degree programs, the Center promotes employment readiness, small business growth, and lifelong learning. As a hub for workforce innovation in the Miami Valley, the Center is committed to strengthening the regional economy, empowering individuals to achieve economic mobility, and developing a diverse, highly skilled workforce prepared to meet the needs of today—and tomorrow.
Located at 840 Germantown Street, Dayton, the center serves as a hub for underserved communities in Clark, Greene, and Montgomery counties. Central State University-Dayton provides a supportive environment for adult learners and workforce development.
Leadership Team
Community Impact
The Central State University Workforce Training & Business Development Center is designed to expand access to high-quality, affordable workforce training that builds in-demand skills, prepares individuals for meaningful careers, and strengthens regional economic growth across Clark, Greene, and Montgomery counties. Its goal is to serve as a bridge between education, industry, and community by providing hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and pathways to employment—particularly for underserved and underemployed populations. The available enterprise sources emphasize broad community impact and economic mobility but do not specify an exact enrollment target or total number of individuals to be served. However, program materials indicate that training cohorts, workshops, and certificate programs are offered on an ongoing basis, with courses scheduled across defined program periods (e.g., multi-month offerings) and continuous enrollment opportunities throughout the year.
Industry Partnerships
Partnering with Central State University (CSU) on workforce training provides a strategic pathway to strengthen economic development across Clark, Greene, and Montgomery counties by connecting residents to free, high-quality training programs aligned with in-demand industries. Through the Workforce Training & Business Development Center, CSU serves as a vital bridge between education, employers, and community stakeholders—offering hands-on learning, industry-recognized certifications, and career placement support that builds a skilled and competitive regional workforce. These partnerships enable local governments, businesses, and organizations to collaborate with CSU to expand talent pipelines, support entrepreneurship, and address workforce gaps that directly impact economic growth and community prosperity. For partnership opportunities or more information, contact Omotayo Obayanju, Assistant Program Director, at oobayanju@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6009.
Computer Lab & Learning Space
The CSU-Dayton Learning Hub is designed to support participants every step of the way with a welcoming, flexible environment for learning and growth. Whether working independently online or attending in-person sessions, participants have access to computers, technology resources, and digital skills support needed to succeed in certificate coursework and career training programs. With guided instruction and a supportive atmosphere, the Learning Hub helps learners build confidence, strengthen technical skills, and stay connected as they work toward new career opportunities.
Events & Workshops
Stay connected with workforce workshops, job fairs, certification sessions, and entrepreneurship events designed to support your growth.
Resources
-
Participants in Central State University’s workforce training and business development programs can access a wide range of free, high-impact community resources designed to support job readiness, career advancement, and small business growth across Clark, Greene, and Montgomery counties. These tools connect learners to employment services, training opportunities, labor market data, and entrepreneurial support systems that strengthen pathways to economic mobility. By leveraging these resources alongside CSU programming, participants gain a stronger foundation for long-term success in today’s workforce. Below are key community resources available online to help guide your next steps in career and business development:
- Montgomery County OhioMeansJobs / Job Center – Workforce training, job search, and employer connections: https://www.thejobcenter.org/
- Clark County OhioMeansJobs (Job Support & Services) – Career coaching, hiring events, and training services: https://www.clarkdjfs.org/247/Job-Support-Services
- Greene County Workforce Development (via OhioMeansJobs network) – Training programs and employer partnerships: https://www.greenecountyohio.gov/
- OhioMeansJobs Statewide Portal – Job listings, training resources, and career tools: https://ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov/
- WorkSource Montgomery (SkillUp® Free Online Training) – Over 7,000 free courses: https://worksourcemontgomery.com/
- Emerge Center Workforce Development (Miami Valley regional training hub) – Skills training and support services: https://www.emergecntr.org/services/workforce-development/
- Clark State College Workforce Solutions – Customized training and business support: https://www.clarkstate.edu/
- Dayton Region Workforce Development (Montgomery County resources & training programs): https://daytonworkforce.com/montgomery-county-development-services-workforce-development/
Together, these resources create a connected regional ecosystem that helps participants build skills, earn credentials, and access real career pathways while also supporting local employers in developing a stronger, more competitive workforce.
Workforce Opportunities
Participants in Central State University’s Workforce Training & Business Development Center gain access to employers and career pathways in semiconductor manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, water and wastewater treatment, and entrepreneurship. Through partnerships with regional employers and workforce organizations, graduates can pursue internships, apprenticeships, certifications, and full-time employment throughout Clark, Greene, and Montgomery counties. Opportunities are available with industry leaders such as Silfex, Montgomery County Environmental Services, Veolia, and other organizations seeking skilled workers with practical, job-ready training.
Below is a curated list of employers and job resources in Clark County, Greene County, and Montgomery County that regularly hire workers with technical and industry-recognized credentials. These organizations align well with the career pathways offered through Central State University’s Workforce Training & Business Development Center, including semiconductor manufacturing, water and wastewater operations, advanced manufacturing, and skilled trades.
Workforce & Job Search Resources
Workplus
4.0•Employment Agencies
Directions•(937) 327-1961
Springfield-based workforce agency connecting job seekers to local employers in manufacturing, logistics, and skilled trades.
OhioMeansJobs Clark County
Regional workforce center offering job listings, career coaching, and employer connections.
OhioMeansJobs Greene County
Provides local job postings, training assistance, and career services.
OhioMeansJobs Montgomery County
One-stop workforce center serving the Dayton area with employer recruitment and job seeker support.
Contact Us
Contact the Workforce Training & Business Development Center
Omotayo Obayanju
Associate Program Director, Workforce Training and Business Development Center
Phone: 937-376-6009
Email: oobayanju@centralstate.edu
Location:
840 Germantown St.
Dayton, Ohio 45402
Hours:
Monday–Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM