October 9, 2025
We’re excited to share that Future Plans has been featured in Getting Smart for our innovative work supporting the development of the rural AI workforce. The article highlights how our data-driven career navigation tools and strategic partnerships are helping rural learners access high-demand career pathways—especially in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
Empowering Rural Communities Through Career Navigation
At Future Plans, we believe that geography should never limit opportunity. That’s why we’ve placed career navigators in 50 high schools across rural Ohio, guiding students toward workforce-aligned training programs using personalized data from our Future Plans assessment. These navigators are not just advisors—they’re catalysts for change, helping students and families understand the real-world opportunities available in their own communities.
The GRIT Project: A Scalable Model for Workforce Development
Central to our efforts is the GRIT Project, a regional initiative that combines local insight, labor market data, and Future Plans technology to build scalable workforce solutions. By aligning training programs with employer needs and emerging industries like AI, GRIT ensures that rural learners are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.
Why AI Matters in Rural Workforce Planning
Artificial intelligence is transforming every sector—from manufacturing and healthcare to agriculture and logistics. But without intentional planning, rural communities risk being left behind. Future Plans is working to close that gap by helping students and adults understand how AI is shaping the workforce and what skills they need to thrive.
We’re grateful to Getting Smart for spotlighting our work and sharing our vision for inclusive, future-ready workforce development.
Read the Full Article Here
