Indiana Marks Milestone for Jobs Training Program
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe state of Indiana has reached a milestone in its efforts to build a reliable workforce needed for five of the state’s most sought-after industries.
The state says more than 10,000 Hoosiers have completed a high-demand certificate program through the Next Level Jobs Workforce Ready Grant program.
Governor Eric Holcomb updated the workforce figures Monday during his State of the State address.
“Indiana is moving in the right direction and these 10,000-plus Hoosier adults that have put themselves on a better path are helping us get closer to our goal,” said Holcomb. “But we’re not done yet and we won’t rest until all Hoosiers are skilled-up and prospering.”
The goal of the Next Level Jobs initiative is to have 60% of Indiana residents with a quality credential beyond a high school diploma by 2025.
The program provides free training for Hoosiers and reimbursements for Indiana employers for training employees in high-demand fields.
The state has focused its attention on building-up a workforce needed for jobs in the health and life sciences, IT and business services, building and construction, transportation and logistics, and advanced manufacturing.
The governor’s office says more than 900 employers have taken advantage of a state training grant program.
“These grants are positively impacting employers’ efforts to educate and train people on the latest advancements in equipment and technology,” said Fred Payne, commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
The Employer Training Grants provide funding to Indiana companies who hire new employees, train them and keep them for at least six months.
Employers receive up to $50,000 to help cover costs associated with the training.