Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel recently continued their "Heart of Opportunity Tour" with stops in Piketon and Middletown, highlighting the state's economic growth and workforce development initiatives following its recognition as CNBC's No. 1 State for Business.
The tour's fifth stop was at Centrus Energy in Piketon, where discussions focused on regional investments and job creation. Centrus Energy's American Centrifuge Plant, the first U.S.-owned enrichment plant using American technology since 1954, produces High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) for the U.S. Department of Energy. Governor DeWine noted a September 2025 expansion announcement for the plant, projected to create 1,000 construction jobs and approximately 300 new operations jobs.
"Across Ohio, every region is experiencing new business growth," said Governor DeWine, adding that southeastern Ohio is seeing a resurgence of companies choosing to invest and build there, creating new opportunities for residents. Lt. Governor Tressel emphasized that the momentum in Piketon, including a $500 million investment in Ohio's 32 Appalachian counties through the Appalachian Community Grant Program, is a result of collaboration among business, education, and community leaders.
The tour then moved to the Butler Tech Aviation Center in Middletown, which prepares high school students for careers in aviation through hands-on programs in professional piloting and aviation maintenance. This center, located at Middletown Regional Airport, was developed in response to the growing demand for skilled aviation and aerospace professionals in the region.
Dr. William Sprankles, Superintendent/CEO of Butler Tech, said, "At Butler Tech, we listen to the needs of our business and industry partners and respond by preparing students with the skills and experiences that lead to successful careers." Governor DeWine reiterated that this commitment to collaboration between educators and employers is crucial for building Ohio's future workforce and contributes to the state's top business ranking.
The tour, which aims to highlight the factors contributing to Ohio's No. 1 ranking and discuss how Ohio can continue building on its momentum into the future, will continue with additional stops this week.