Regional work force director is appointed

staff REPORT

COLUMBUS — A Cortland man has been appointed regional work force director of the Ohio Department of Development’s Northeast Ohio office.

Mark Barbash, interim director of the development department, announced the appointment of Matthew L. Falter.

Falter is responsible for directing work force development efforts for Ashtabula, Mahoning and Trumbull counties. He will work in partnership with Arnold Clebone, regional economic development director, and serve as a liaison to state government, local business leaders, elected officials and economic and work force development entities to meet the training and talent development needs of businesses in the region.

Falter, 31, will earn $56,680 annually in the position.

“With more than eight years of experience in work force development, Matthew has extensive knowledge and understanding of work force needs in Northeast Ohio,” Barbash said. “His background and commitment will bring positive energy to the area as we work to enhance Ohio’s competitiveness with innovative programs designed to develop, attract and retain talent.”

Before his appointment, Falter, who has a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Kent State University, served as a business account representative for the Trumbull County Department of Job and Family Services One Stop Workforce Center, where he assisted local companies in securing more than $231,000 in work-force training grant funds and with recruitment, retention and expansion efforts.