Appalachia deserves Trump’s attention

If President Donald Trump genuinely cares about the future of the Appalachian region of the United States (which includes 32 counties in Ohio, and in which he campaigned vigorously), he will support efforts underway that aim to build an Appalachian economy that provides a diverse range of economic opportunities, especially as the influence of coal and other extractive industry continues to wane.

In my time as an appointee of the Obama administration to the Appalachian Regional Commission, a federal-state economic development agency, I saw the promise of this new economy firsthand. In Appalachian Ohio alone, more than $5 million has been invested through the Obama administration’s POWER Initiative to develop this diverse, vibrant economy. One such award will enable Ohio University to create a 28-county regional innovation network that delivers expertise, training and resources to Ohio entrepreneurs and existing businesses.

Another allows Hocking College to launch a forward-looking workforcedevelopment program that trains Ohioans for in-demand regional careers, such as welding, automotive technology and advanced energy technology. These investments are creating jobs and wealth, positively changing lives, generating momentum and hope, and providing a return to the American taxpayer.

Trump won the election with the strong support of Appalachians across the United States, and especially in Ohio. He would do well to expand upon the success of this economic diversification strategy. Appalachian Ohio cannot afford to go backward.

Mat Hennessey Upper Arlington