Foundation. “Mount Vernon, our county seat, came along in 1805 and was named after Washington’s estate.” Throughout its history, Knox County has evolved from a small farming settlement into a region rich with educational institutions and industrial prowess. One of the county’s most distinctive institutions, Kenyon College, the state’s oldest private college. Is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year, Gottke points out.“But, we’re lucky to have not just Kenyon, but also Mount Vernon Nazarene University and a campus of Central Ohio Technical College.” Industry has long been a backbone of Knox County’s economy. Its industrial history began in 1833 with Charles and Elias Cooper’s iron foundry in Mount Vernon, which evolved into Cooper-Bessemer, the largest diesel engine manufacturer in the U.S.“They were known for producing large power generation systems,” notes Gottke. Ariel Corporation, founded locally in the 1960s, is now a global leader in natural gas compressors. “Chances are, natural gas in your house has gone through an Ariel compressor,” says Gottke. The region also pioneered glassmaking with Pittsburgh Plate Glass and the innovative “Pennvernon process.” WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Knox County’s approach to economic growth isn’t just about attracting new businesses; it’s equally focused on preparing the local workforce to meet the needs of critical industries. The Area Development Foundation, a nonprofit tasked with spearheading economic development, plays a central role in these efforts. One of its most significant initiatives revolves around partnerships with local educational institutions for workforce development. According to Gottke, the major focus is to steer students toward careers in manufacturing and healthcare—two sectors that employ a substantial portion of the local population. “Manufacturing accounts for about 22% of our employment, and healthcare is around 17%,” he explains. “Those are significant economic driving sectors here.” Knox County embeds workforce development professionals directly in schools to guide students toward local job opportunities. “One individual is dedicated to working with Mount Vernon City Schools, another with all other county high schools, and a third focuses on career exploration for K-8 students,” says Gottke. These professionals are pivotal, especially for high school seniors. “Every graduating senior participates in a meeting regarding post-high school plans which often leads to guiding them toward opportunities in manufacturing and healthcare.” This early engagement helps combat 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10 KNOX COUNTY, OH
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