Empowering Workforce Development

By Greg Lee (far left), Executive Director, Western Indiana Workforce Development Board, overseeing workforce initiatives and fostering connections between employers, job seekers, and training providers.

As a member of Indiana’s Workforce Development community for over 12 years, I have been amazed by the range of resources and programs available to support employers and employees. Through the efforts of organizations like the Workforce Development Board and WorkOne, businesses across Region 7 are finding innovative ways to train their teams, attract talent, and prepare for future success.

Here’s an overview of some of the impactful programs and success stories driving workforce development in Indiana:

Investing in Workforce Training

Our Business Services Team has provided over $1.7 million in funding to 39 unique employers in Region 7 since 2022. These grants allow businesses to train employees either in-house or through external programs. Employers can receive up to $50,000 per grant cycle, provided they meet specific criteria.

For example, manufacturers can upskill their maintenance teams with in-house training or use funds to send staff to training providers or post-secondary institutions for short-term certifications. These programs ensure employees and job seekers gain the skills they need while easing the financial burden on employers.

Expanding Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG)

In September 2023, Governor Holcomb announced a significant investment to double the number of JAG programs in Indiana. Region 7 has seen incredible growth, expanding from 8 schools at the end of the 2023-2024 school year to 17 middle and high schools this year.

JAG equips students with critical skills like career exploration, job attainment, trauma-informed care, and employer engagement. This year, Region 7’s programs include:

This expansion ensures that more young people in our region are prepared for successful careers and futures.

Registered Nurse Apprenticeships

Our partnership with Union Hospital, Ivy Tech, Indiana State University, and St. Mary-of-the-Woods College is transforming the healthcare workforce through RN apprenticeships. This program supports apprentices with resources like:

Since May 2022, over 40 Registered Nurses have successfully completed the program, with more currently in training. These apprenticeships address workforce shortages in healthcare while providing participants with a clear pathway to rewarding careers.

Job Fairs and Employer Engagement

Connecting job seekers and employers is another priority. We organize job fairs in each county at least once a year, offering businesses a no-cost opportunity to recruit talent. For example, recent job fairs have helped match hundreds of candidates with positions in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Our WorkOne offices are also available to employers to host their own hiring events.

Breaking Down Barriers

One challenge we face is overcoming the outdated perception that WorkOne centers only serve unemployed individuals. In reality, WorkOne offers much more:

We’re also committed to engaging younger audiences through programs like JAG and our WIOA Youth program and other outreach initiatives.

Success Story: Employer-Based Training

One recent example of our work is with Entek, which is bringing 640 jobs to the region. By collaborating with them early, we’ve identified their workforce needs and will work closely with them to ensure a qualified candidate pool.

Looking Ahead

Through grants, partnerships, and innovative programs, we’re building a stronger workforce for Indiana’s future. Whether you’re an employer looking to upskill your team or a job seeker ready for a fresh start, there are resources available to support you.

If you’d like to learn more, contact your local WorkOne office or visit our website to see how we can help. Together, we can create opportunities and drive growth in Region 7.

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