Akron, OH Colleges and Universities: Career Training & Education

Known as the City of Invention, Akron, Ohio is famous for a number of products created there, including ice cream cones, synthetic rubber tires, and even the first breakfast cereal. With a population of 210,369, it is the fifth largest city in Ohio.

Historically, Akron was known as the "Rubber Capital of the World" because Goodyear, Firestone, and General Tire all set up establishments there in the early 20th century. The population exploded between 1910 and 1920 as people moved to Akron to work at these companies. Today, it has become a world-renowned center for liquid crystal polymer research and development, with 400 polymer-related companies located nearby.

Akron also has strong aeronautics, freight movement, and motor vehicle production industries. Currently the majority of the Akron labor force works in trade, transport, and utilities, manufacturing, professional and businesses services, and health and education services. In the coming years, however, this Ohio city is expected to experience the most employment growth in the healthcare and social assistance industry, as well as in science and technology, administration, and leisure and hospitality.

The largest employers in Akron today include:

• Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co
• Summa Health System
• Akron Public Schools
• City of Akron
• Akron General Medical Center

Sports fans know the city best as the home of the Cleveland Indians, while lovers of the arts enjoy the Ohio Ballet and Akron Symphony Orchestra.

Sources:

• City of Akron
• Sperling's Best Places, Akron, OH
• City Data, Akron, Ohio