Workforce Talent
Vibrant Local Workforce
The greater Dayton region has an available, skilled workforce of over 620,000 people (2023) who meet the needs of our diverse industry sectors. Wages and the Cost of Living are lower here than you will find in the rest of the US which pairs well with the amenities available for our residents. With over 120 degree-granting institutions within 60 miles of Dayton and strong workforce training resources, our goal is to continue to build and enhance that workforce. The information below highlights some of the resources available to help businesses find new employees and upskill their existing staff.
Regional Workforce Profile
The BusinessFirst! regional footprint contains almost half a million jobs (448,133). Major employment sectors include Government, due in part to Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio’s largest single-site employer (38,000 jobs), Aerospace, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Professional Services. The region has benefitted from new companies choosing to locate here and the expansion of local companies.
Regional Workforce Demographic Data (Lightcast Data, 2025)
Population (2024)
907,935
Jobs (2024)
448,133
Average Earnings (2024)
$74,000
High School Diploma, Some College and Higher Degrees (2024)
92.9%
Education
Throughout the geographic footprint of BusinessFirst! there are numerous educational institutions and training opportunities for the workforce. There are more opportunities for education and training available in the Greater Dayton Region. Contact a BusinessFirst! representative for assistance.
Job Training
OhioMeansJobs offers training and support for all job seekers, whether unemployed, underemployed, or exploring new careers. Employers and job seekers can find more information through the links below.
Regional Workforce Resources
Dayton’s extensive network of resources helps businesses connect with the skilled workforce they need.
Employer Services at OhioMeansJobs Montgomery County
OhioMeansJobs - Montgomery County offers local employers services like job postings, candidate screening, interview space, assessments, wage subsidies, and mass recruiting.
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OhioMeansJobs - Darke County
OhioMeansJobs Darke County offers a wide variety of free services for job seekers and employers.
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OhioMeansJobs - Greene County
OhioMeansJobs Greene County helps job seekers with job searches, interviews, career counseling, training, and ongoing support.
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OhioMeansJobs
The main page for employers and individuals to post positions and search for available jobs.
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OhioMeansJobs - Miami County
OhioMeansJobs Miami County connects job seekers and employers with local employment, training, and support services.
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Preble County Careers
Preble County Careers aims to connect community members with local job opportunities, ensuring residents recognize the valuable careers available right in their own backyard.
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Southwestern Ohio Council for Higher Education
The Southwestern Ohio Council for Higher Education is a consortium of 20 colleges and universities working to strengthen southwest Ohio through education, workforce development, and student engagement.
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Summer Youth Works at OhioMeansJobs Montgomery County
OhioMeansJobs Montgomery County’s Summer Youth Works connects employers with youth aged 14-17, providing training and wages while offering valuable work experience to develop future talent.
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