Miami University is dedicated to shaping Ohio’s future by aligning education with the evolving needs of our communities and workforce. Through Advancing State Priorities, Igniting Regional Economies (ASPIRE), we connect academic excellence with real-world impact—supporting critical industries, strengthening regional capacity, and driving economic growth across the state. Our engagements span industry, economic development, innovation-driven entrepreneurship and commercialization, and all levels of government—ensuring our work remains relevant, collaborative, and aligned with both public and private priorities.
ASPIRE also serves as a platform for student engagement in leadership, advocacy, and public service. By participating in experiential learning opportunities, students gain firsthand insight into state and local policy, industry challenges, and community development efforts—preparing them to lead with purpose and integrity. Rooted in Miami's code of Love and Honor, ASPIRE exemplifies our commitment to meaningful, mission-driven impact across Ohio and beyond.
ASPIRE engages with Ohio’s businesses, elected officials, and communities to tap into the talent and resources needed to spur workforce development, solve real-world challenges, and fuel economic growth—backed by the drive and innovation of Miami University.
ASPIRE positions Miami University as a leader in Ohio for advancing economic growth and supporting workforce efforts that promote opportunity, well-being, and a thriving quality of life in the communities where we live, work, and learn.
The Fisher Innovation College@Elm Workforce Development Center is a model public-private partnership, leveraging Miami University and Oxford’s vibrant arts community to drive economic growth. With dedicated concierge services for startups, the center supports small business development and helps attract and retain talent across Oxford, Butler County, and Southwest Ohio.
The Government Relations Network exposes students of all majors to government and government-related professions. The GRN provides opportunities to attend conferences in the nation's and state's capitols, build networks with alumni and public officials, and become engaged citizens dedicated to advancing Miami University, Ohio, and our global community.
The Miami University polytechnic campus will address workforce needs of the state of Ohio, prepare students to solve current and emerging challenges through applied learning and work-based experience, and help promote socioeconomic mobility in southwest Ohio and across the state.
Work+ is an innovative program that allows students to earn a degree while gaining real-world experience and having their tuition paid. Students work approximately 24 hours a week with partner employers, who benefit from reduced turnover and a pipeline of motivated, career-focused talent.
The Advanced Manufacturing Workforce and Innovation Hub is an industry-driven partnership between Miami University, Butler Tech, and Butler County designed to build a skilled workforce and fuel regional economic growth. It offers flexible pathways—from credentials and upskilling to degrees in robotics and electro-mechanical engineering—aligned with manufacturing sector needs.
The Hometown Talent Initiative builds workforce pathways that expose young people to opportunities in Ohio communities. By building strong partnerships, the program aims to reinvest in these communities and inspire students to become the next generation of local leaders and workforce talent.
In collaboration with CVG and Butler County airports, Miami University is spearheading Advanced Air Mobility innovation by integrating next-gen EVOTL technology, cutting-edge research, and immersive student experiences to position Oxford as a hub for the future of air transportation.
Miami University and the Cleveland Clinic have partnered to create a quantum computing workforce in Ohio, including Ohio’s first quantum computing undergraduate degree program, combining science, technology, and entrepreneurship with specialized discipline tracks. This partnership aims to position Ohio as a global leader in quantum computing while driving innovation in healthcare and technology.
Inspired by the changing landscape of higher education, Miami University launched a new strategic planning initiative to transform and reinvigorate the university. In fall 2023, Miami began identifying opportunities to strengthen its teaching, research, and service missions, and to reimagine itself to serve dynamic needs and interests of students now and in the future. This work has resulted in 55 broad ideas that are being reviewed to evaluate the cost-benefit of each, as well as opportunities for synergy and collaboration.
