So proud of the volunteers and staff that is working hard to make the Skilled Trades Education Center a reality! The center should be complete by year end and ready for NE Ohio students and Scouts in early 2026.
-- Patrick Scherer, CEO
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The Great Trail Council is building something transformative—a Skilled Trades Education Center where young people can discover their strengths, learn valuable hands-on skills, and step confidently into careers that support their families and our community. This project is more than bricks and mortar—it’s about building futures, closing opportunity gaps, and creating a stronger Northeast Ohio for everyone.
We have a crisis within skilled trades
We have a crisis within skilled trades
Local businesses are struggling to find enough talent to fill their job openings; this will only compound as experienced employees continue to retire over the next decade. In addition, high school graduates are increasingly searching for career paths beyond the expensive option of going to a traditional four-year college.
Scouting America has a plan
Scouting America has a plan
The Scouting program includes effective introductions to several skilled trades through merit badges and activities; however, the Council currently offers very few of these opportunities locally. Our new Skilled Trades Center at Camp Manatoc will provide a safe, effective, and unique venue to introduce, educate and instruct Scouts as well as community youth to the in-demand field of skilled trades.
First merit badges to be offered:
First merit badges to be offered:
Plumbing,
Woodwork,
Electricity,
Electronics,
Welding,
Home Repairs, and
Drafting Merit Badges.
If you are interested in exploring being a counselor for these or otherwise want to help, contact Brian.
Brian A. Battaglia, MPA
Director, Skilled Trades Education Program
Office: (234) 900-5906
Mailing Address:
Great Trail Council
4500 Hudson Dr
Stow, OH 44224
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