Remembering Clayton Mathile

In 2023, Ohio lost a visionary business leader and dear friend with the passing of Clayton "Clay" Mathile. Clay's profound impact on Ohio's economy, communities, and people is difficult to overstate. He not only transformed the Iams Company into a global leader, he also poured his knowledge into mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs through Aileron, a nonprofit dedicated to developing and supporting small business leaders through proven professional management techniques. 

JobsOhio is proud to honor Clay's legacy through the JobsOhio Small Business Academy, a partnership with Aileron. This initiative will extend Clay's vision by elevating small businesses and empowering them to catalyze a ripple effect of growth and prosperity across Ohio and beyond. 

Clay deeply believed in the power of economic development to improve lives, and his passion was instrumental in creating the Dayton Development Coalition, one of the seven JobsOhio regional economic development partners. In recognition of his leadership and lasting impact, JobsOhio dedicated the Clayton Mathile Conference Room, anchoring the Southwest Corner of the office closest to the Dayton region, as an ever-present reminder of the standards we strive to uphold and the potential in people we aim to unlock.

Ohio is forever grateful for Clay Mathile, a humble giant whose boundless generosity, mentorship, and belief in the power of dreams have left an indelible mark on our state and beyond. His legacy will continue to inspire us to dream boldly, live compassionately, and work tirelessly to create a brighter future for all Ohioans.