Agriculture + Food Processing

Contributing $93 billion to Ohio’s economy, food and agriculture combine to create the state’s top industry. Thousands of farms produce more than 200 diverse crops while more than 1,000 agricultural processing plants are located here. That means there are plenty of career opportunities. In fact, one in every seven Ohioans is employed in some aspect of food and agriculture. This includes farm production, wholesaling and retailing, marketing and processing, and agribusiness.

Agriculture:

In Cleveland Plus, we’re very proud of our strong agricultural base. We’re just as proud to be the home of The Ohio State University Extension teaching and research facilities. With a substantial track record in contributing to Ohio’s overall quality of life, The Ohio State University Extension makes a positive impact on the economy. A 2005 Battelle study found:

• $159 million in total Ohio economic output (sales).
• The operations of Extension also support 1,918 jobs in Ohio, comprising 1,150 direct jobs and a further 768 jobs generated in the Ohio economy via the employment multiplier effect.
• Extension direct and indirect employment generates personal income for Ohio residents amounting to $64 million annually.

Food Processing:

Cleveland Plus is also a proven leader in the food processing industry. Strategically located between the grain belt and the populous Eastern markets, our borders are within 500 miles of 60 percent of both the U.S. and Canadian populations. Companies that call our region home include Smuckers, Sugardale Foods, Heinz Weight Watchers division, Smith's Dairy, Shearer's Foods and Nestle Frozen Foods.

If you’re interested in a career in the agriculture or food processing industries, you’ll find an array of exciting opportunities in Cleveland Plus. Learn more by checking out the links below:

• The Ohio State University Extension - Wooster Center
• The Ohio State University Extension - Wayne
• Smuckers
• Sugardale Foods
• Heinz Weight Watchers Division
• Smith’s Dairy
• Shearer’s Foods, Inc.
• Nestle Frozen Foods

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