Ohio Tech Day Kicks Off in Northwest Ohio with Hands-On Look at Technology and Skilled-Trades Careers—PHOTOS
Bowling Green event gives students immersive experiences in robotics, welding, electrical work, and other in-demand fields
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – Ohio Tech Day 2026 kicked off today at Bowling Green State University, giving Northwest Ohio students a hands-on look at the technology and skilled careers shaping the state's economy.
Organized by OhioX, Meta's Bowling Green Data Center, Bowling Green State University, and Be Pro Be Proud, the event featured the Be Pro Be Proud Mobile Workshop and immersive Meta Quest virtual reality experiences. Students explored careers in welding, HVAC, robotics, electrical work, and other high-demand fields that combine advanced technology with hands-on skills.
The event brought together students, educators, industry representatives, and community leaders from across the region. Through interactive demonstrations and virtual simulations, students experienced the tools and technologies used in today's skilled trades and learned about career opportunities available throughout Ohio.
For organizers, the goal extends beyond a single day of programming.
"Ohio is building real momentum as the Silicon Heartland, and we want Ohio's students across the state to see themselves as part of that future," said Chris Berry, President and CEO of OhioX. "Today's kickoff in Bowling Green connects students with the people, technologies, and hands-on careers shaping Ohio's economy. Ohio Tech Day shows students that they don't have to leave Ohio to pursue big ideas, build meaningful careers, or change the world. They can do it right here."
Meta returns as presenting sponsor for a sixth year
Meta has served as presenting sponsor of Ohio Tech Day since its founding and has supported Be Pro Be Proud launches in Tennessee, Texas, and New Mexico, along with events in Illinois and now Ohio.
"Meta is proud to serve as the presenting sponsor of OhioX's Ohio Tech Day for the sixth year in a row, and we're excited to be back at Bowling Green State University this year to support local students as they explore the careers shaping our region," said Amanda Miller, Community Engagement Manager for Meta. "Through our partnership with Be Pro Be Proud, this next generation of tech professionals can experience firsthand the careers that build and operate Meta's critical infrastructure."
That partnership brought the Be Pro Be Proud Mobile Workshop to campus for the day, the same traveling exhibit the organization has used to reach students in a dozen states.
"Ten years in and more than 620,000 students later, the most motivating thing is still seeing an idea that started in Arkansas reach more young people in more states. We're proud to be back in Ohio with Meta for Ohio Tech Day," said Andrew Parker, Executive Director of Be Pro Be Proud. "Working alongside partners like Bowling Green State University and OhioX, our Mobile Workshop Experience shows students the high-tech, high-wage careers open to them, and that's how we build tomorrow's workforce and the next generation of fortune creators."
Hosting the kickoff on campus also reflects the university's role as a bridge between Northwest Ohio students and the employers hiring them.
“Bowling Green State University is proud to again serve as the host location of Ohio Tech Day, bringing together education and industry to advance Ohio's future in technology," said BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers. "During this time of technological advancement and opportunity, education will drive both technology and human-centric skills, including curiosity, empathy and connection, and we will continue to leverage our region's robust educational ecosystem for the future of our communities, state and nation.”
Statewide programming continues Friday
The Bowling Green event serves as the statewide kickoff for Ohio Tech Day 2026, taking place Friday, September 25. Throughout that day, companies, schools, and nonprofit organizations across Ohio are hosting field trips, classroom activities, demonstrations, and other programs designed to inspire students to explore careers in technology and innovation.
About Ohio Tech Day
Ohio Tech Day is an annual statewide celebration of the people, companies, and ideas that make Ohio tech possible. Designed to include and inspire Ohio’s next generation of technology and innovation leaders, it brings together companies, schools, and nonprofit organizations for events and activities across the state. Ohio Tech Day is held on the final Friday of September, with the 2026 celebration taking place Friday, September 25th. Ohio Tech Day is organized by OhioX, a statewide nonprofit trade association working to build Ohio into a leading technology hub.
For more information on OhioX, please visit, www.ohiox.org
For more information on Ohio Tech Day, please visit www.ohiotechday.org
###
