04/21/2026
CTO was founded by Tara from a genuine desire to serve people better.
With a combined background in childcare, public schools, and special education, she saw that many administrators, providers, and the communities that they support needed training that was more accessible, more flexible, and free from the usual extra fees and complications. She founded CTO to meet the organziations both large and small, as well as professionals who were brand new to their roles and those with years of experience.
As the company grew, Joel joined as the primary trainer and later became co-owner. If you’ve trained with Joel, you know he brings knowledge, energy, and plenty of laughter to every class. Tara continues to lead so much of what happens behind the scenes while focusing on growth, relationships, and community outreach.
Today, the next generation is part of the story too. Yesh, Tara and Joel’s oldest child, is CTO’s newest team member and helps lead both in-person and online Zoom CPR reviews.
The family’s commitment to serving others extends beyond CTO as well. Tara and Joel are also full-time independent providers through Ohio’s Department of Developmental Disabilities and co-owners of Community Grounds: Trolley Café & Mercantile.
At the heart of it all, CTO has always been about people, community, and making training more approachable for everyone.
