Statewide Ohio Tech Day Launches in Central Ohio: Inspiring Students at Columbus City Schools—PHOTOS
Columbus City Schools event highlights innovative career paths through Virtual Reality experiences and skilled trades demonstrations
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Tech Day 2026 officially launched this week with a flagship event at Franklin University. Organized by OhioX, Meta’s New Albany Data Center, Be Pro Be Proud, and COSI, the event gave students hands-on experiences with cutting-edge Meta Quest Virtual Reality (VR) technology and introduced career pathways in technology and skilled trades.
The program brought together community leaders, educators, and students from across Columbus, all of whom had the opportunity to explore the Be Pro Be Proud Mobile Workshop. This immersive exhibit featured VR simulations in high-demand fields such as welding, HVAC, robotics, and electrical work—highlighting the critical role skilled trades play in Ohio’s innovation economy.
Students engaged directly with interactive tools designed to spark curiosity about careers that combine advanced technology with hands-on craftsmanship. Meta has helped spearhead statewide launches of Be Pro Be Proud in Tennessee, Texas, and New Mexico, and hosted events in Illinois and now Ohio, introducing the initiative to new communities across the U.S.
"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. "Our Columbus kickoff 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."
Thursday’s flagship event served as the official launch of Ohio Tech Day 2026 celebrations, which take place annually on the final Friday in September. This year’s Ohio Tech Day, Friday, September 25th, was the 6th annual Ohio Tech Day.
Meta returns as presenting sponsor for a sixth year
Ohio Tech Day is an initiative of OhioX, made possible by Meta as the day’s presenting sponsor, to inspire Ohio’s students to explore tech and innovation careers. On Ohio Tech Day, companies, schools, and organizations across the state participate in events and programs focused on connecting students with technology.
"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 in Columbus 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."
“Be Pro Be Proud is once again proud to partner with OhioX and Meta to bring our Mobile Workshop Experience back to Ohio,” added Andrew Parker, Executive Director of Be Pro Be Proud. “The hands-on technical career exploration we provide students helps broaden awareness of many high-tech, high-wage technical professions that, if pursued, will position them to be part of the next generation of fortune creators. Guided by a Community Mission to bring the world closer together, Meta has not only made engagements possible through financial support, this team has facilitated the creation and fostered the growth of like-minded individuals and organizations that, together, will Build Tomorrow’s Workforce – in Ohio and across America.”
“As a District, we are committed to opening doors of opportunity for every learner. Ohio Tech Day shows our students that technology and skilled trades are not just careers of the future, they are pathways to leadership and innovation that strengthen our community,” said Dr. Angela Chapman, Superintendent/CEO, Columbus City Schools.
"At COSI, we believe that the next generation of leaders are vital to our future workforce," said Dr. Frederic Bertley, President and CEO of COSI. "Ohio Tech Day helps to create a spark into tech and the related trades, and we are proud to stand alongside partners like OhioX, Meta, Columbus City Schools, Be Pro Be Proud, and Franklin University who are helping thousands of Ohio kids see that future for themselves."
Statewide programming continues Friday
The Columbus event serves as a 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 celebration of tech in Ohio meant to inspire students to explore innovation careers. Held annually on the final Friday of September (this year’s Ohio Tech Day is Friday, September 26th) this special Ohio Tech Day launch program kickoffs statewide celebrations by companies, schools, and nonprofits. Ohio Tech Day is built and hosted by OhioX, a statewide technology and innovation nonprofit trade association working to build Ohio’s tech hub.
For more information on OhioX, please visit, www.ohiox.org
For more information on Ohio Tech Day, please visit www.ohiotechday.org
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