Building Indiana: January/February 2013 by Building Indiana News

jANUArY/fEBrUArY 2013

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Publisher’s Desk Turning a New Page

219.226.0300 • 317.632.1410 www.buildingindiana.com www.buildingindianablog.com

tarting out a new year in business is a lot like turning to a new page in a book – you are never sure what you will find, but your reflections on the previous pages you have read will provide you with the tools necessary to move forward. The economic outlook for 2013 is optimistic, but no one can definitively predict the twists and turns on the roads ahead. Our only option is to press forward drawing upon lessons learned in the past, reflecting as we go to make the best use of our experiences. At the beginning of each new fiscal year, companies should spend time going over the successes and failures of the previous one. The best practices that promoted growth and success should be evaluated and tweaked for continued use in the ever changing business world, and unsuccessful practices should be either refined or discontinued. Today’s business climate is constantly evolving, and as such, we should be constantly evolving as well. Now that the political campaigning and elections are over throughout the country, a picture is beginning to form about the direction the nation is headed. There are new trends forming in business technology with the continued rise of socialized generations entering the workforce and reshaping the connectedness of the business environment. There are also new trends in the responsibilities of companies who are taking a more active role in tackling economic and social problems around the world. Consumers are demanding that companies care about the footprint they leave upon society, and in turn businesses are starting to appreciate the mutual benefits shared with the communities they impact. Consumer preference is also changing the way business is conducted throughout our world, and some economists have begun referring to this concept as an “ownerless economy.” Driven by younger generations, the consumers of today seek personalization and a notion of creating concepts that are shared with a company, rather than just provided by it. For a business to have continued success, they must meet these new demands of consumers and utilize these new trends in technology and communication. Start out this year right by evaluating past successes and implementing new ideas to allow your company to flourish in the coming year.

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 1330 Arrowhead Court Crown Point, IN 46307 Publisher/Editor Andrea M. Pearman apearman@buildingindiana.com Director of Advertising Liza Hilliard lhilliard@buildingindiana.com Writer Nick Dmitrovich ndmitrovich@buildingindiana.com Creative Director Jen Labriola jlabriola@buildingindiana.com Graphic Designer Carlo Labriola clabriola@buildingindiana.com Special Projects Coordinator Amber Price aprice@buildingindiana.com Accounting Jennifer Kasza jkasza@buildingindiana.com

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Copyright ©2011 Building Indiana News is published six times a year. Address correspondence to: 1330 Arrowhead Court, Crown Point, IN 46307. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise duplicated without the written permission of the publisher. For general reprint information, contact Building Indiana News at andrea@buildingindiananews.com. All opinions and views are solely those of the participants or editors and are not necessarily the views of magazine sponsors.

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Contents JAN/FEB

2013

EVE R Y I S S U E

DE P A R T M E N T S

04 Publisher’s Desk 08 Contributors 09 Business Buzz 26 People News E X P E R T A DV I C E

30 State of the Industry Old Dogs Can Learn New Tricks

40 52

BOTTOM LINE How Can Using Webinars Help My Business

PHOTO FEATURE

Small Business Spotlight Locally Made Brews Brings Dollars to the Community

Planning a better future

WORKERS COMP

to success

Our Indiana Roads

A little thing that leads

58 YOUR WELL-BEING

Breathe in the facts

Marketing

Economic Development

28 38

COLLEGES

LOGISTICS

Construction

BEING PRODUCTIVE Overpaying Employees

F E AT U R E S

Purdue’s Herrick

LABORATORIES

CONSTRUCTION

43 FACTS AND STATS

Your networking strategy

Governor makes

economic development

a priority

66 the last word

Taking Control 2013

44 cover story

Indiana’s Academics and Economics

LIFELONG LEARNING Why Should Employers Care About Continuing Education

64 www.buildingindiananews.com

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Contributors schools and universities to promote career opportunities in the building trades and with contractors.

Liza Hillard Liza Hillard is an advertising and marketing specialist with Diversified Marketing Strategies. She is a Crown Point native and graduate of Valparaiso University with bachelor’s degree in physical education, health, Spanish and education. She is a member of Phi Epsilon Kappa, the Indiana Recreational Sports Association, the Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce and the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association.

Thomas Easterly Thomas Easterly is the Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Tom earned both his Bachelors and Masters Degrees from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, and he has certification as a Professional Engineer in four states.

Kevin Comerford Kevin Comerford is Director of Education for the Construction Advancement Foundation of Northwest Indiana (Portage). He is responsible for developing educational programs and seminars, and also works with local high

Micah Pollak Micah Pollak is an Assistant Professor of Economics in the School of Business and Economics at Indiana University Northwest. He holds a PhD in economics from the University of Illinois and joined Indiana University North-

west last fall, where he teaches a number of courses including economic history. Pollak’s research interests are in Microeconomics, Political Economy, as well as regional economics. He also serves on the Times Board of Economists and is responsible, along with a colleague, for publishing the monthly Northwest Indiana Economic Index, which provides a snapshot and forecast for the economy in the region. Robert J. Groszewski Robert J. Groszewski is a President, Instructor and Program Specialist with Safety Training Services, Inc. He served six years as a part-time firefighter/paramedic for the City of Calumet City, Illinois; and has been a member of the City of Gary Fire Department since 1984. Gro-

szewski has been a rescue specialist for two years and a Safety Officer/ Training Captain for twelve years, his current rank is Battalion Chief. He is responsible for supervision and incident command whose duties also include training current members and recruits in all phases of firefighting, rescue, fire safety/ protection and hazardous materials response. Sean Smith Sean Smith is the Business Development Manager for CertifiedSafety (Whiting). Smith is responsible for CertifiedSafety’s growth through strategic planning, market analysis/awareness, corporate sales and networking. Prior to joining CertifiedSafety, Smith served as Global Business Manager with Greene, Tweed & Co.

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BUSINESS BUZZ

Give Into Temptation

at the 2013 Midwest Smoke Out

By Liza Hilliard

onnoisseurs of fine wines and spirits, fast cars, all topped off with a good cigar will converge on The Venue at Horseshoe Casino for The Midwest Smoke Out on Thursday, April 25, 2013. The Midwest Smoke Out, the largest cigar show and exhibition in the Midwest, returns to Northwest Indiana for the fourth year. With an all-inclusive ticket, attendees receive: minimum of 14 cigars, imported from the top suppliers around the world, gourmet delicacies, high-end liquor samplings, craft beer, luxury cars, motorcycles, entertainment, gaming and more. From the cigar connoisseur to the non-smoker, “The attendees have this event hosts some of the most afa total experience. fluent networking in the region. The Midwest Smoke Out exThey receive the pects to draw over 2,000 cigar aficigars, food, drinks, cionados from 21 states and 3 counand by throwing on tries. Tickets to the event are $150, their fedora hat gave with attendees receiving the face the event a vacavalue of the ticket back in cigars tion feel. For a few alone, along with a 1-year membership (or renewal) to Cigar Rights of hours, people can America. escape reality and “Cigar culture has evolved into truly engage in an a larger, more powerful image,” acexperience they cording to Andrea Pearman, Midwill never forget.” west Smoke Out Event Planner. “The image conjures ideas of cul- Andrea Pearman, ture, refinement, and sophisticaMidwest Smoke Out tion; a world that attendees of the Event Planner Midwest Smoke Out are very much a part of. We are proud to host an event that has received national recognition. “ Limited numbers of luxury suites are available, as well as corporate packages and group discounts, added Kara Morton, NWI Business Events Coordinator. “Any business that wants to enhance their relationships with vendors or customers, will find unique ideas at the Midwest Smoke Out, the premier opportunity to impress.” These luxury suites offer a private networking opportunity, with food and an open bar in each suite, which overlooks the entire venue.

Famed cigar crafter, Lou Rodriguez (left) signs a cigar box for an event attendee during last years Midwest Smoke Out.

Bo DePaoli, Vice President of ACMS Group Inc., says “A suite at the event is the best way for us to entertain our clients. It is a one stop location that hosts all of the luxuries people want. We have been in the business for many years, and this event is the one that our customers talk about the most, even for years passed.” In 2012, DMS introduced Midwest Smoke Out merchandise. The fedora hats, boating shirts, and imprinted apparel added to the sentiment of the ultimate get away. Pearman adds, “The attendees have a total experience. They receive the cigars, food, drinks, and by throwing on their fedora hat gave the event a vacation feel. For a few hours, people can escape reality and truly engage in an experience they will never forget.” With the events continued growth, a VIP pre-party is hosted by invite only. Suite holders will receive VIP tickets to give to all of their guests. Other VIP passes may be obtained through inquiry or invite only. The newest added feature to the event is the Guest Pass. This includes all of the events luxuries with the exception of the cigar voucher book. A very limited number of guest passes are available for $95 ticket. For more information regarding tickets, suites, sponsorship, or vendor information, log on to www.midwestsmokeout.com or call Jessica Javors and Kara Morton, DMS Event Coordinators, at 219-226-0300.

Cigar smoker demographics

77% Male 23% Female

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85% Married

AGE

(21-34) 13% | (25-54) 74% | (35-64) 81% Median Age= 48

EDU.

Attended college 85% | College degree 65%

Household Income (Median)

160,000

Occupation

Managerial/Professional 62% Any Chief Officer Title 29%

BUSINESS BUZZ

Northeast Convenience Store Plan Wins USF Competition University of Saint Francis business students Garrett Harvey, Koree Terrell, Logan Rehrer and Emerson Ueber created the winning plan in the university’s 6th annual Business Plan Competition at the university’s North Campus. The plan for Cougar Stop Shop, a small convenience store at the university to provide students a convenient alternative for purchasing toiletries, snacks and beverages, took the top prize; $2,000 to be used as the plan creators see fit. Nathan Scully and Brendton Williams earned the $1,000 second-place prize for E-Z Shop, a mobile application allowing users a more pleasant and efficient shopping experience. The $500 thirdplace prize went to Morgan Braun and Grace Geha for Game Day Café, a permanent football stadium concession stand consolidating all food options in one location to provide convenience for fans. Serving as judges were Dennis Tratnyek and Keith Davis with Star Financial; Jay Leonard with Preferred Automotive Group; Dick Teets of Steel Dynamics Inc.; Mike Kelly with Caliente; Gwyn Eastom with BKD CPAs and Advisors; and Josh Burkhardt with Beers Mallers Backs & Salin LLP. The Keith Busse School of Business and Entrepreneurial Leadership sponsors the competition, which focuses upon the viability of each business plan, the likelihood of becoming a start-up, and integration of core values that contribute to profitability and the good of the world community. Participation is voluntary and co-curricular, integrating business planning, marketing and financial statements for students.

Plastics Manufacturer Grows Headquarters in St. Joseph County Elkhart Plastics, Inc. (EPI), a rotationally molded plastic parts manufacturer, announced plans to expand its Elkhart headquarters, creating up to 50 new jobs by 2015. EPI employs 290 Hoosiers at its Middlebury, Elkhart and South Bend facilities. EPI, which manufactures molded plastic parts for the agricultural, marine, commercial vehicle, and recreational vehicle industries, will invest $3.8 million to add 25,000 square feet to its 83,000 square-foot South Bend headquarters. As part of the project, EPI will purchase new manufacturing equipment for the facility, which is expected to be operational next year. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Elkhart Plastics, Inc. up to $250,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $35,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. The city of South Bend will consider additional property tax abatement. 10

Ivy Tech Northeast to Launch Training Program Ivy Tech Community College Northeast announced a new certificate program in Environmental Technology due to a recently awarded grant by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration as part of the National STEM Consortium. Individuals can train for industry certifications from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Recipients of the certificate would qualify for jobs such as hazmat, safety and health technicians, and water quality technicians.

RV Manufacturer to Expand Elkhart County HQ Jayco Inc., a recreational vehicle developer and manufacturer, plans to expand its Middlebury headquarters, adding up to 65 jobs by 2015. Jayco intends to invest nearly $3 million for a 77,000 square-foot extension to an existing 62,000 square-foot facility in Middlebury. The new addition, slated to be complete in May, will house production for the Entegra Coach, Jayco’s high-end motor home line. Jayco currently employs more than 1,700 Hoosiers at its Middlebury campus. Jayco has grown to become the third largest recreational vehicle manufacturer in the United States and Canada, selling to more than 500 dealers around the world. With the goal of being landfill free by 2015, Jayco recycled 5,438 tons of wood, 1,332 tons of scrap metal and 793 tons of cardboard last year.

Compression Molding Manufacturer Adds Jobs in Huntington Continental Structural Plastics, Inc., an exterior body panels and structural composites components supplier, announced plans to expand its Huntington operations, creating up to 50 new jobs by 2015. CSP has 286 full-time employees in Huntington. The Michigan-based company will invest $6.3 million to renovate and equip its 203,000 square-foot Huntington facility to accommodate a new production line for 2015 Corvette model body panels. The facility, which currently manufactures products for other General Motors and Ford vehicles, is expected to be operational by spring 2013. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Continental Structural Plastics, Inc. up to $300,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $50,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans and number of Indiana residents hired. The city of Huntington will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of Huntington County Economic Development.

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Jobs coming to Kendallville

$2.6009.

Inventure Adding 80 jobs by 2015 Inventure Foods says it will invest $15 million in its Northeast Indiana facility, creating 80 jobs by late 2015.

Steel Dynamics Ramping Up Production in Whitley County Steel Dynamics, Inc. announced plans to install a heat treating system at its Structural and Rail Division facility in Columbus. It is anticipated that the new rail capabilities will permit the Structural and Rail Division to become North America’s pre-eminent rail manufacturer for rail quality, end straightness, and dimensional control. When operational, the system will be capable of producing up to 350,000 tons of standard strength and head hardened plain, carbon steel rails for North America’s railroad industry. Capital investments are estimated to be slightly less than $27 million. The facility is expected to be operation by the end of the year. Production ramp-up is expected to continue through 2015, reaching full production of 350,000 tons in early 2016. The expansion is expected to create nearly 40 full-time jobs.

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BUSINESS BUZZ

Wolfpack Chassis announced plans to lease the vacant Reliable Products Machining and Welding Co. building in Kendallville to manufacture chassis and chassis components for the manufactured housing and recreational vehicle industries. Wolfpack also looked at locations and incentive packages from economic development entities in LaGrange and Elkhart County. The potential exists for creating 118 jobs with an average pay of $46,536 and an annual payroll of $5.5 million when fully operational. Wolfpack’s company headquarters will be in Kendallville. It plans to employ welders, service technicians, metal fabricators, maintenance personnel, engineers and a sales staff. The Kendallville Economic Development Advisory Committee unanimously recommended that Wolfpack receive 10 years of sliding abatement on $508,000 in real property and approximately $1.4 million in equipment. Wolfpack would receive 100% tax abatement in the first year, decreasing to 10% in the final year. The company is projected to save about $141,827 in taxes over the 10 years based on a 2011 tax rate of

Inventure will invest $3.6 million in equipment and the addition of 20 jobs in early parts of 2013. The $3.6 million will include $1.6 million for a conveyor unit, $609,000 for scales, and nearly $520,000 for a bagger, among other items. The company’s statement of benefits on the tax abatement form said it now has 122 employees with a payroll of just over $4.1 million. The 20 additional employees would boost the company’s payroll by $436,800.

BUSINESS BUZZ

Former GM Site Part of Autoworld Expansion Anderson Mayor Kevin S. Smith and Autoworld President Mary Jamerson announced plans to relocate both Myers and Ford Autoworld dealerships to a former General Motors plant site in Anderson. Autoworld anticipates investing $7.5 million and creating 30 new jobs at the Scatterfield location. The new Autoworld facilities will place the former plant site back on the tax roll, be a major traffic generator, increase significantly new capital investment, and enhance opportunities for business operations in the area. The new development will also kick-off Anderson’s first Community Revitalization Enhancement District (CRED) investment, enabling the city to begin capturing state retail sales.

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Global Automotive Parts Supplier Adding Jobs in Noble County Lake Forest, Illinois.-based Tenneco, Inc. announced the company’s plans to expand its Ligonier operations, creating up to 105 jobs by 2013. The company will invest $18.5 million to lease and equip a 50,000 square-foot Ligonier facility to house robotic welding machinery to produce emission control parts for Chrysler. Tenneco’s Ligonier facility, which has more than 430 full-time Indiana employees, produces emission control products, including mufflers, catalytic converters and emission systems for Chrysler and Ford. The Ligonier facility has been the recipient of Tenneco’s Global Environmental Health and Safety Large Plant Culture Award for the past two years. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Tenneco Automotive Operating Company, Inc., up to $600,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $68,000 in training grants. The city of Ligonier approved additional incentives at the request of the Noble County Economic Development Corporation.

Michigan Manufacturer Expands in Indiana Micro Machine Company, LLC, an orthopedic medical device manufacturer, announced plans today to establish a new manufacturing facility in Warsaw, creating up to 60 new jobs by 2015. The Kalamazoo, Mich.-headquartered company will invest $2.8 million to lease, renovate and equip an 11,000 square-foot space. The new facility opened its doors this past September. Founded in 1964, Micro Machine provides precision machined parts for the medical device industry, with a focus on the orthopedic and spinal industries. Two of its biggest customers, Dupuy Orthopaedics and Zimmer, are located in Warsaw. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Micro Machine, LLC up to $550,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $35,000 in training. Kosciusko County approved additional property tax abatement at the request of the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation.

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Manufacturer Chooses Elkhart

Elkhart County.

Light Fixture Manufacturer Grows in Elkhart County Vista Manufacturing, Inc., an electronic light-emitting diode

For daily news from Northeast Indiana and around the state, visit our blog at www.buildingindianablog.com and follow us on Twitter @BuildingIndiana.

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BUSINESS BUZZ

Smart LLC, a green kitchen cabinet manufacturer, announced plans today to expand New Paris operations, creating up to 75 new jobs by 2016. The company plans to invest $11.4 million to renovate and equip its current 169,000 square-foot facility. Smart LLC will add kitchen cabinet manufacturing, finishing, and assembly lines by 2015. Smart currently has more than 100 Indiana employees. Established in 2004, Smart LLC manufactures entry level kitchen cabinets used in multi-unit buildings, including apartment, condominium, hospitality, assisted living and senior living complexes. Smart’s cabinets are designed to be environmentally friendly and are certified by the Environmental Stewardship Program, Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association and American National Standards for its green efforts. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Smart LLC up to $600,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants. Elkhart County will consider additional tax abatement at the request of the Economic Development Corporation of Elkhart County.

(LED), electronic lighting, and incandescent light manufacturer announced plans to expand its Elkhart operations, creating up to 15 new jobs by 2015. Vista employs 20 full-time employees in its current Elkhart facilities. The company will invest $3 million over a span of three years to build and equip a 34,000 square-foot facility. Currently operating out of two buildings in Elkhart, the expansion will consolidate Vista’s current manufacturing and distribution facilities into one building, which will be operational by next year. Vista is the parent company of Vista Lighting Worldwide and manufactures and supplies more than 10 million LED and incandescent bulbs and electrical components per year for 16 different industries, including the aviation, recreational vehicle, emergency vehicle, movie theater, appliance and utility sectors. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Vista Building, LLC, Vista Manufacturing, Inc. and Vista Lighting Worldwide, Inc. up to $110,000 in conditional tax credits. Elkhart County will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Economic Development Corporation of

BUSINESS BUZZ

Central Indiana Charter School Receives National Attention Christel House Academy (CHA), located in Indianapolis, is one of 10 high-poverty schools in the nation to be recognized for academic success through the 2013 MetLife FoundationNASSP Breakthrough Schools program. CHA will be honored at NASSP’s Ignite 2013 Conference in National Harbor, MD which will begin February 28. CHA is the first charter school in Indiana to receive this distinction. CHA houses over 600 innercity students. The MetLife Foundation-NASSP Breakthrough Schools program recognizes middle level and high schools that serve large numbers of students living in poverty and are high achieving or dramatically improving student achievement. Selection criteria for the award are based on a school’s documented success in implementing strategies that are aligned with the core areas of NASSP’s Breaking Ranks Framework, including; collaborative leadership, personalization, and curriculum instruction, and assessment.

Requirements Changes for New Indiana Teachers The State Board of Education voted to change Indiana’s teacher licensing rules with the creation of the Adjunct Teacher Permit. The permit will allow any person who holds a bachelor’s degree, a 3.0 grade point average, and can pass a subject test to immediately teach in Indiana schools. Permit holders must also take a teacher training course once they’ve started teaching. The adjunct permit differs from traditional licenses that require training in child development, child psychology, student teaching, classroom management, and in-school internship requirements. The rules change will also effect school principal training requirements, which will no loner require the principal to hold a master’s degree. Instead, principles must have a bachelor’s degree, at least two years teaching experience, and must complete a administration training program to be licensed.

Ivy Tech Partners with Indy Police Ivy Tech Community College today signed an agreement with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) to offer joint criminal justice courses at the IMPD Training Academy. The classes are part of a pilot program designed to offer Ivy Tech criminal justice students the opportunity

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Engineering Firm Returns to National List Butler, Fairman & Seufert, an Indianapolis-based civil engineering firm, was ranked 55th on The Zweig Letter 2012 Hot Firm List. The designation marks the second year in a row Butler, Fairman & Seufert has been the highest ranking Indianabased firm on the list. Butler, Fairman & Seufert employs approximately 150 civil engineers, land surveyors, construction inspectors, environmental scientists and other technical professionals. The firm is headquartered in Indianapolis with offices throughout Indiana in Lafayette, Fort Wayne, Plainfield, Merrillville and

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Jeffersonville. The Zweig Letter 2012 Hot Firm List recognizes the 100 fastest-growing architecture, engineering, planning and environmental consulting firms in the United States and Canada. These firms have outperformed the economy and competitors to become leaders in their chosen fields.

BUSINESS BUZZ

to learn more about careers in law enforcement through the interaction with IMPD officers, as well as provide IMPD officers an affordable option for continuing their education. The pilot program launching this spring will initially consist of two classes.: Introduction to Criminal Justice, offered in the spring and Multicultural Law Enforcement, offered in the fall semester. Each class will be taught by an IMPD officer, and consists of 15 IMPD officers and 15 Ivy Tech criminal justice students. Ivy Tech Community College, the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest public postsecondary institution and the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, has campuses throughout Indiana.

Global Supplier Consolidates Operations to Indiana

Meritor, a Michigan-based global supplier to commercial truck and industrial markets, announced plans to invest $1.4 million to consolidate its North American remanufacturing operations to Plainfield, creating up to 82 new jobs by the end of 2013. Meritor, which currently employs more than 350 Indiana residents, will begin consolidating operations and hiring additional production and skilled trade associates in Plainfield this month. This facility, which has been operated by the company since 2004, serves the North American commercial truck industry including original equipment and aftermarket distribution channels. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Meritor Aftermarket USA, LLC up to $450,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $50,000 in training grants based on the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job creation plans. The town of Plainfield will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Hendricks County Economic Development Partnership.

Magnetation Unveils Plans for First Indiana Facility BUSINESS BUZZ

Magnetation, LLC, which recycles iron waste to produce valuable iron ore concentrate, announced plans to invest up to $350 million to build a new iron ore pellet plant in Reynolds, creating approximately 100 new jobs. The company anticipates breaking ground on the plant during the first quarter of next year. Magnetation will transport iron ore concentrate from its mineral recovery operations in northern Minnesota to the new Reynolds plant, which is expected to be operational by early 2015. The new facility will produce high-quality iron ore pellets, a critical raw material in the steelmaking process. The concentrate will be converted into high-quality iron ore pellets for use by AK Steel Corporation. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered MagPellet, LLC, a part of Magnetation, up to $1.5 million in conditional tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job creation plans. IDOT will also assist the community with improving rail service to the site. White County offered funds using revenues generated from the issuance of a TIF bond. NIPSCO also offered $23 million in additional energy and infrastructure incentives as part of its continued efforts to support local economic development.

Cancer-Fighting Company Plans to Add Workers

US HIFU, LLC, a Charlotte, N.C.-based healthcare firm specializing in medical procedures, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 27 high-wage jobs by 2015. US HIFU designs and produces minimally invasive high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technologies for cancer treatment. Founded in 2004, the privately-held company manufactures the Sonablate 500 system, which uses HIFU technology to deliver minimally invasive treatments. The HIFU technology is being studied for the treatment of prostate cancer in clinical trials in the United States and is also being studied around the world to treat a wide variety of cancers and soft tissue diseases. The company also provides medical devices internationally through its subsidiary company International HIFU. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered US HIFU up to $350,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $50,000 in training grants based on the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job creation plans. The city of Indianapolis supports the project with additional incentives at the request of Develop Indy.

Benefits Company Expanding

Catamaran Corp., a leading provider of pharmacy benefit management (PBM) and technology services, today opened

Network with Economic Development leaders throughout the entire state of Indiana.

For more information, or to reserve your spot: Contact Jill Ewing (317)454-7013 jillewing@ieda.org www.ieda.org 16

Thurs. March 7 through Fri. March 8 Indianapolis Marriott Downtown 350 West Maryland St. Indianapolis, IN 46225

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Entrepreneurial Scientific Software Company Unveils Indy Growth Plans

Indigo Biosystems, Inc., a scientific software provider, announced plans today to expand its Indianapolis operations, creating up to 63 new high-wage jobs by 2015. The company, which develops scientific automation software that replaces the visual interpretation of laboratory data, invested $1.4 million to lease, renovate and equip 10,580 square feet of office space. Since the introduction of ASCENT, software that allows web systems to automate the visual analysis of complex data, Indigo has experienced rapid revenue growth. Utilizing advanced algorithms, Indigo’s cloud-based software enables analytical laboratories to automate medically significant diagnostic tests performed on millions of patient samples every year. Indigo is one of 100 businesses awarded a 21 Fund grant

since January 2006. During that time, the fund has invested more than $118.5 million in high-tech Indiana entrepreneurial companies, including more than $65.8 million in more than 50 life sciences companies, which collectively have the potential to create thousands of new jobs. Indigo has approximately 30 employees at its Indianapolis office.

Kentucky Company to Open Indy Rehab Center

Kindred Healthcare, Inc. announced the planned development of a new Transitional Care Center in Indianapolis. Kindred intends to open a new 100-bed facility adjacent to St. Francis Health’s Indianapolis campus. The center will specialize in intensive short term rehabilitation therapy, including cardiac and orthopedic rehabilitation. Kindred anticipates groundbreaking in the first quarter of 2013 and opening in the first quarter of 2014. Kindred currently operates two Transitional Care Hospitals, licensed as long-term acute care hospitals, seven nursing and rehabilitation centers, one hospice and home health location, and through its RehabCare division, one hospital-based acute rehabilitation unit. For daily news from Central Indiana and around the state, visit our blog at www.buildingindianablog.com and follow us on Twitter @BuildingIndiana.

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BUSINESS BUZZ

a new 13,000 square-foot Center of Excellence in downtown Indianapolis. The Center will support Catamaran’s win of the $60 million, six-year State of Indiana Medicaid contract, signed in October, and will add approximately 50 new jobs over the next five months. The Center of Excellence, located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, officially opened today during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by State dignitaries. The facility added new local jobs including pharmacists, technicians and other essential staff.

BUSINESS BUZZ

South Indiana State to Create Flight Academy Indiana State University will create its own flight academy that will operate from Terre Haute International Airport. The universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aviation Technology Department will manage the daily operations of the new flight academy, which officials hope will be available to students starting next fall. The university will have a fleet of airplanes to train ISUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s student pilots. Indiana State has teamed with Brown Flying School, which operates out of Sky King Airport north of Terre Haute as well as Terre Haute International, to train student pilots. Students will be able to practice on several flight simulators at the university, while Brown Flying School instructors would take the students to the skies. Terre Haute International Airport did not have space available for Indiana State to house a potential flight school until a location recently became available. ISU officials have been in preliminary discussions with multiple service providers that are needed to support the new flight academy. Indiana State trustees gave university officials the authority to negotiate and enter into a contract calling for the airport to renovate a facility to provide classroom, office and hangar space in exchange for a four-year lease by the university.

Steel Tubing Company Locates Operations in Brownstown E&H Tubing, Inc., a mechanical and structural tubing manufacturer, announced plans today to locate its operations to Brownsburg, creating up to 56 new jobs by 2015. Recently, E&H acquired the assets of Indiana Steel and Tube Inc., which had operated in Brownstown for the last four years. E&H is leasing two fully operational, Indiana Steel and Tube facilities; a 100,000 square-foot facility and 68,000 square-foot facility, located on a combined 20 acres of land in Brownstown. Both facilities will continue to manufacturer structural steel tubing and all-coated products. E&H manufactures steel tubing used in a range of products including racking systems, chain link fences, patio furniture, agriculture equipment and satellite products. The company has already hired machine operators, fork truck operators and packaging positions and plans to add additional positions as part of a second shift in the upcoming months. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered E&H Tubing, Inc. up to $400,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $40,000 in training grants. The town of Brownstown approved additional tax abatement at the request of the Jackson County Industrial Development Corporation. 18

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Insurance Provider Expands Headquarters in Fort Wayne

Wayne-Allen Count Economic Development Alliance.

Ohio Valley Resources, LLC (OVR) announced plans to

BUSINESS BUZZ

Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company, an insurance provider for churches and related ministries, announced plans today to expand its headquarters, creating up to 102 new jobs by 2016. The Fort Wayne-based company will invest $15 million to construct and equip a 54,395 square foot facility providing additional office and training space for agents and staff. The facility is expected to be operational by early 2014. In 2009, Brotherhood Mutual invested more than $5.2 million to establish a 26,000 square-foot customer service center at its Fort Wayne headquarters, adding 60 new jobs. The company currently employs 266 Hoosiers in Fort Wayne. Founded in Grabill, Ind. in 1917, Brotherhood Mutual serves more than 40,000 churches and ministries in 43 states and the District of Columbia and has been recognized as one of the best places to work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company up to $875,000 in conditional tax credits. The city of Fort Wayne approved additional property tax abatement at the request of the Fort

Spencer County Chosen as Home to Billion-Dollar Fertilizer Facility locate a new fertilizer plant to in Spencer County, north of Rockport. The company will invest $952 million to construct a nitrogen fertilizer facility on approximately 150 acres, creating up to 80 new jobs by 2016. OVRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new plant will be the first entirely new facility of its type to be constructed in America by a U.S.-based firm in more than a quarter-century. It will feature emission control technologies that comply with current federal and state environmental regulations. The Rockport facility will produce approximately 2,420 tons per day of ammonia and 3,000 tons per day of urea ammonium nitrate solution for fertilizer. In addition, the plant will produce 300 tons per day of diesel exhaust fluid, a urea solution used to reduce emissions in diesel engines. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Ohio Valley Resources up to $1,200,000 in conditional tax credits. The Indiana Department of Transportation will also assist the community with site infrastructure improvements. Spencer County will consider additional property tax abatement

11:30-1:00 - Networking Luncheon 1:00-6:00 - FREE Tradeshow 6:00-7:00 - GC of the Year Reception 7:00-9:00 - GC of the Year Banquet

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at the request of the Lincolnland Economic Development

BUSINESS BUZZ

Corporation.

buildings, totaling its footprint Jasper at more than 500,000 square feet. Construction on a connecting corridor and

Metaugus Opens in Bloomington Metaugus, an FDA registered custom product development and contract manufacturing company, opened a new division, the Natural Products Research Institute (NPRI) in Bloomington. The institute will serve as the primary research front in Metaugus’ continuing efforts to bring novel compounds,

renovations on the additional buildings are expected to be completed over the next few years. Meyer employs more than 195 full-time employees at its Jasper, Indianapolis, and Elkhart locations.

Cummins Marks Production Milestone Cummins Inc. achieved a production milestone when the

process ready solutions, and custom special delivery systems

2,000,000th Chrysler Group pickup truck engine rolled off the

to market. NPRI will focus on nutritional chemistry.

line at the Columbus MidRange Engine Plant. The 2012 6.7L

The parent company, located in Northwest Georgia, creates

inline 6-cylinder High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel powers

nutritional products using state of the art technology guided by

the Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy duty pickup trucks and is

a continued commitment to excellence and first class product

also available in Ram 3500/4500/5500 chassis cabs. The first

development expertise.

Cummins Turbo Diesel engine was produced for Chrysler in

Logistics Company Breaks Ground Meyer Distributing, Inc., an automotive specialty products marketing and distribution provider, plans to expand its Jasper headquarters, creating up to 109 new jobs by the end of 2016.

1988 at the Rocky Mount Engine Plant in Rocky Mount, N.C.

Heat-Resistant Materials Manufacturer Relocating to Southern Indiana Uni-Ref, Inc., a refractory products manufacturer, plans to

The company plans to support its national distribution network

relocate its headquarters from Sharonville, Ohio to Brookeville,

by investing $23.37 million in centralization and expansion of its

creating up to 50 new jobs by 2015.

operations and warehouse space. Meyer’s expansion will increase its presence to six

Uni-Ref, a subsidiary of United Refractories Co. in McMurray, Pa., will purchase and renovate a 270,000 square-

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foot facility, which will be fully operational by early next year. The company manufactures heat-resistant materials that make up the

BUSINESS BUZZ

protective linings of high-temperature furnaces, reactors, and other processing units. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered UniRef up to $500,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $70,000 in training grants. Franklin County will support the project through additional incentives at the request of the Franklin County Economic Development Commission.

County Clearing Way For Manufacturer’s Growth Gibson County has provided a smooth path for Vuteq Corporation to expand their automotive supply chain facility in Princeton. Vuteq is a tier 1 supplier of dashboards, glass products, and more to Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana located in the same Gibson County community. To help secure the investment and benefits, Gibson County provided Vuteq with up to $800,000 in a forgivable loan from the Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana tax increment financing district to be used toward construction as they add to their current building footprint. The Gibson County Board of Commissioners, Economic Development Commission, Re-development Commission and County Council all voted in favor of the conditional incentive package.

Engine Remanufacturer Expands Again in Southwest Indiana A Jasper-based engine and transmission remanufacturer, announced plans to expand its operations, creating up to 40 new jobs by 2016. Founded in 1942, Jasper Engine Exchange produces more than 130,000 gas and diesel engines, transmissions, differentials, and rear axle assemblies each year. Jasper Engine Exchange will invest $550,000 to update and equip its current 367,000 square-foot facility. The expansion will accommodate Jasper Engines growing alternative fuels division, remanufactured diesel engine related product line and support the increased production of gas engines for the Canadian Postal Service. Jasper Engines currently employs 1,700 associates throughout the United States with 1,160 in Indiana. Jasper Engines’ latest expansion in southern Indiana is the company’s second in as many years. The company announced plans in 2010 to invest more than $270,000 to relocate two of its out-of-state operations to its Crawford and Dubois county facilities, creating up to 65 new jobs. For daily news from South Indiana and around the state, visit our blog at www.buildingindianablog.com and follow us on Twitter @BuildingIndiana.

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BUSINESS BUZZ

Northwest Purdue Calumet Moves Closer to Establishing Commercialization Center Drawing closer to realizing its plan for developing a commercialization center, Purdue University Calumet has purchased the former Kaplan Commons building, half a mile west of the Hammond campus. The Purdue Calumet Commercialization Center will serve as a catalyst for economic development and technological transfer throughout northwest Indiana. The center will encourage collaboration among faculty experts, community members and students who desire assistance bringing their ideas to market. Project laboratories will occupy the majority of space within the center. The labs will enable faculty, students and community clients to design, develop, test, and erect prototypes. Other innovative usage opportunities being considered include relocating the university’s Center for Entrepreneurship Success. Though Purdue Calumet previously budgeted the $1 million purchase cost of the 18,000 square feet structure, the time frame for the center’s opening is contingent on the university’s ability to raise another $1 million from private donors to cover renovation and furnishing costs. Developing a commercialization center is a strategy of Purdue Calumet’s pending 2013-18 strategic plan.

Repair Facility Relocating to Crown Point, Expanding Kiemle-Hankins announced a major expansion of its operations in Northwest Indiana, relocating its Gary plant to Crown Point. The company will make a number of key equipment upgrades and acquisitions in conjunction with the relocation. Investment in the project is projected to be in excess of $2 million. The new facility will be fully operational by February 2013. Kiemle-Hankins, founded in 1928, is one of the country’s largest independent providers of industrial repair and maintenance services. The company specializes in servicing critical substations, circuit breakers, motors, pumps and other rotating apparatus. In addition to its new facility in Crown Point, Kiemle-Hankins has operations serving Detroit, Dayton, Cincinnati, Lima, and Toledo.

Hobart Company Plans to Add Jobs ITR America, LLC (ITR), a heavy machinery equipment parts distributor, announced plans today to expand its Hobart headquarters, creating up to 20 new jobs by 2014. ITR, which currently employs 20 associates in Hobart, will invest $6.2 million to build a 100,000 square-foot facility on eight acres in the state certified shovel ready site, North Wind Crossing Business Park. Founded in 2006, ITR supplies undercarriage, repair parts, ground engaging tools, rubber track and asphalt paver parts to the heavy machinery industry. ITR services original equipment manufacturers, dealers, and service organizations throughout North America. ITR will purchase new distribution equipment for the facility, which will be fully operational in 2014. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered ITR up to $125,000 in conditional tax credits. The city of Hobart approved additional property tax abatement at the request of the Hobart Redevelopment Commission.

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ArcelorMittal Unveils Waste-Electricity Generator BUSINESS BUZZ

Gil Sperling, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Senior Advisor, joined local officials and company representatives for the ribbon cutting ceremony and tour of the ArcelorMittal steel manufacturing plant in East Chicago. ArcelorMittal unveiled a new, energy recovery and reuse boiler that recycles waste gas generated through its ironmaking process and uses it to generate electricity to help power the plant. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) awarded ArcelorMittal $31.6 million for their boiler project under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which was matched by the company. The company expects this energy recovery boiler to generate 333,000 megawatt hours of power annually of its own electricity, the equivalent of powering 30,000 American homes per year, and to save the facility nearly $20 million in energy costs each year. The project also employed 200 local construction workers at the plant site. In addition, the new boiler makes the Indiana Harbor plant, the largest steel manufacturing facility in North America, more competitive in the global steel market. Indiana Harbor employs approximately 6,000 workers.

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BUSINESS BUZZ

Global Consumer Goods Packaging Manufacturer Invests in Hammond Facility Huhtamaki, Inc., a global manufacturer of consumer and specialty packaging, plans to expand its Hammond fiber molding plant, creating up to 12 new jobs by 2014. Huhtamaki, a subsidiary of Finland-based Huhtamäki Oyj, will invest $8.48 million to expand its production capabilities to accommodate increased demand for its recycled paper products. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Huhtamaki up to $115,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans. The city of Hammond offered additional property tax abatement. Huhtamaki’s parent company, Huhtamäki Oyj, was founded 92 years ago and serves the foodservice and consumer goods markets with approximately 14,000 people in 62 manufacturing units and several sales offices across 31 countries.

New Safety Retail Store Opens in Whiting Safety Partners, a Godfrey, IL-based provider of environmental safety, training, and consulting assistance, opened its most recent safety supply store in Whiting. The store features a remodeled 3,000 square-foot showroom offering

the latest in protective wear, spill response, fire suppression, and other safety related items. Safety Partners, a member of the Whiting Chamber of Commerce and the Northwest Indiana Business Round Table (NWIBRT), increased Northwest Indiana’s site safety personnel in 2012 by 30%, due in large part to its various safety support programs, OSHA certification classes, and environmental consulting services.

Steel Technology Contractor Expanding in Northwest Indiana Indiana Flame Service (IFS), a technology services contractor, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 24 new jobs by 2015. The company will invest $14 million to upgrade technology and equipment at its Burns Harbor and Gary operations. In addition, IFS plans to relocate a portion of its research and development from Fresse Sur Moselle, France to Burns Harbor. Founded in 2003, IFS designs and installs steel slab cutting and conditioning equipment for the automotive, manufacturing, green energy and military sectors. The company, which employs 42 Hoosiers at its five facilities in Gary and Burns Harbor, plans to begin hiring additional maintenance and production associates in Burns Harbor next year.

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The Indiana Economic Development

Having one source that can provide all services from wellness and education through rehabilitation assures companies of a more efficient continuum of

up to $240,000 in training grants. The town

care, better care coordination, a unified team of healthcare professionals and

of Burns Harbor will consider additional

customized approach to their healthcare needs. There are five convenient

property tax abatement at the request

locations at Hammond, Munster, Crown Point, Michigan City and Valparaiso.

of the Duneland Economic Development Company.

MonoSol Plans $34 Million Expansion in La Porte MonoSol, a manufacturer of water

BUSINESS BUZZ

Corporation offered Indiana Flame Service

Scheck Industries Opens New Office in Chesterton January 15th - Scheck Industries has announced their newest office located at 1499 Woodlawn Ave Chesterton, IN. The Company has also released news about a multi-million dollar contract award on January 15th at the BP refinery in Whiting. The Scheck Family has committed to a multi-million dollar investment to

soluble films is planning a more than

its Northwest Indiana operation which is being headed-up by Indiana resident and

$34 million expansion in La Porte. At

long time local Construction Executive Gary Potesta.

a meeting of city councilors, members

Scheck Industries, and its group of Companies, is a national Industrial

voted unanimously to grant MonoSol tax

Contractor, with core expertise in the Refinery, Power, Steel, Chemical, Pulp

abatement recognizing the more than

and Paper, Semiconductor, Renewable Energy, Food and Beverage, and the

$34 million it expects to expend on new

Pharmaceutical Industries. The Company employs up to 1500 craft people on a

manufacturing equipment over the next 10

yearly basis. Scheck Industries provides the following services: Prime Contractor,

years.

Power and Process Piping, Boiler, Instrumentation, Pipe and Modular Fabrication,

MonoSol plans to build an addition

Facility Maintenance, Commercial HVAC, and Construction Management.

third 50,000 square feet building in the Thomas Rose Industrial Park with an estimated real property improvement cost of $5 million. The company expects

For daily news from Northwest Indiana and around the state, visit our blog at www.buildingindianablog.com and follow us on Twitter @BuildingIndiana.

to create 37 jobs with the expansion for an estimated increase of $1.8 million in salaries. MonoSol employs 136 people in its La Porte operations. It has 345 employees overall with operations in Merrillville, Portage and England.

Franciscan Working Well Announces New “Care Coordination Program” Starting January 14th, 2013 program specialists at Franciscan will be providing specialized services for all referrals and consultants. This will include personalized communication with the employers, workers compensation insurance companies, case managers, medical specialty providers, physical therapist and

Indiana’s largest privately-owned bank.

services for imaging. “Care Coordination” is designed to help companies with our control medical costs and make healthy employees through management of authorizations, claim

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Member FDIC

mike Schrage Centier President & Ceo

People News UIndy Names Arts & Sciences Dean The University of Indianapolis has selected Jennifer Drake as the next Dean of its College of Arts & Sciences, the university’s largest academic unit. Drake has served as Acting Dean since August 2011. Drake joined the UIndy faculty in 2004, as an Associate Professor, and in 2008 she was named Director of the university’s Woodrow Wilson Indiana Teaching Fellowship. A native of upstate New York, Drake holds an undergraduate degree from Brown University and Master’s and Doctoral degrees from the State University of New York at Binghamton. Drake resides in Indianapolis.

IU CFO Awarded University’s Highest Honor Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie awarded the President’s Medal for Excellence to Neil Theobald, former Indiana University CFO and the current President of Temple University. The President’s Medal is the highest honor an IU President can bestow. The award recognizes, among other criteria, distinction in public service, service to IU and extraordinary merit and achievement in the arts, humanities, sciences, education and industry. Theobald has served as CFO 26

since July 2007, where he had been responsible for managing the University’s $3 billion budget, which supports more than 127,000 students and faculty. In 2003, Theobald was presented the Distinguished Graduate Award by the College of Education at the University of Washington. Theobald is a three-time recipient of IU’s Teaching Excellence Recognition Award. A native of Peoria, Ill., Theobald came to IU from the University of Washington, where he was Associate Professor of Education Finance. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Trinity College and a Doctoral Degree from the University of Washington.

Milner to Lead UE International Programs Wesley Milner has been named the University of Evansville’s first Executive Director of International Programs. Milner currently serves as Director of the University’s International Studies program, chair of the Department of Law, Politics and Society, and the Austin S. Igleheart Endowed Chair in Political Science. Milner’s international experience includes serving as a visiting professor at Harlaxton College in England, Tokoha Gakuen University in Japan, and the University of Virginia’s Semester at Sea program. Milner came to UE in 1999 as a professor of political

science and international studies, earning the Dean’s Teaching Award in the College of Arts and Sciences. Milner obtained his undergraduate degree in economics and German from the University of Texas, his Master’s Degree from the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University, and his doctorate in Political Science from the University of North Texas.

Helmke Joins SPEA Faculty Paul Helmke, Fort Wayne Mayor from 1988 to 2000, former President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and of the Brady Campaign/Center to Prevent Gun Violence, will be joining the faculty of the School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University Bloomington. Helmke was also the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in Indiana in 1998. Helmke attended Indiana University where earned a degree in Political Science. Helmke received his law degree from Yale University in 1973. As Fort Wayne Mayor, Helmke’s “CommunityOriented Government” was praised for reducing crime, empowering neighborhoods and improving the urban environment. After three terms in office, Helmke returned to private practice law until his appointment to lead the

Brady Campaign/Center where he served as President and CEO from 2006 to 2011.

IU Announces School of Philanthropy Associate Dean Patrick M. Rooney, Ph.D. Patrick M. Rooney, Ph.D has been named Associate Dean of Indiana University’s School of Philanthropy. Rooney has Executive Director of the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University, the precursor to the School of Philanthropy, since 2008. Previously, Rooney served as Assistant Dean for Academic Programs for Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus. He has held a variety of academic administrator positions at IUPUI, including serving on the Faculty Council, the Budgetary Affairs Committee, the campus-wide Promotion and Tenure Committee and the Faculty Colloquium on Excellence in Teaching. Rooney is Board President of the nationwide Nonprofit Academic Centers Council, a member of national nonprofit sector boards and advisory groups such as the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, and the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability Panel of Nonprofit Leaders. Rooney received his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Notre Dame. www.buildingindiananews.com

Trine University Announces New Dean Trine University has appointed Craig Laker Dean for its Jannen School of Arts & Sciences. Laker joined Trine in 1999 as an assistant professor in the Department of Criminal Justice, Psychology and, Social Sciences, becoming Chairman of the department in 2002. He has coached the handgun competition and crime scene teams of Trine’s chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association to several regional and national titles. Laker has also taught at Concordia University, University of Cincinnati, and Indiana University. Laker received all of his degrees from Indiana University: a Bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs in 1987, a Master’s degree in Personnel Management and Labor Relations in

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1989, and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice in 1992.

UE Names Marketing VP

2011 NWIBRT

Recognition Award Recipient

The University of Evansville announced the hiring of Donald L. Jones as the University’s first VP of Marketing and Communications. Jones will be responsible for overseeing UE’s brand strategy, marketing, public relations, and communications. Jones served as VP of Marketing for MSW Research, Senior Managing Consultant for IBM, Senior VP of Global Product Management at The ARS Group, and Director of Marketing at St. Mary’s Medical Center. Jones holds an MBA from UE and a B.S. in marketing from Indiana University.

Photo Feature Superior Construction Awarded National, State Safety Honors Superior Construction Co., Inc., a Gary-based general contractor specializing in commercial, industrial, and heavy highway construction, received national accolades from the National Maintenance Agreements Policy Committee (NMAPC) and statewide accolades from the Indiana Construction Association (ICA). For its 2011 industrial maintenance work at the BP Oil Refinery in Whiting, Superior Construction employees logged 1,784,260 consecutive onsite work hours without an OSHA recorded incident. It was also the only project to surpass 1 million hours, making Superior Construction the only recipient of a ZISA Gold Star Award for 2011. The ICA awarded Superior Construction a Gold Summit Safety Award in the General Contractor Over 300,000 Hours category based on a number of criteria. Superior Construction was then selected amongst the other ICA category winners for the ICA Pinnacle Safety Award, the overall award for safety achievement in the state. Since 2008, Superior Construction has collected two ZISA Gold Star Awards, 3 ICA Pinnacle Safety Awards, and five consecutive ICA Gold Summit Safety Awards. This year is shaping out in similar manner; Superior Construction has already surpassed 1 million consecutive hours without an OSHA recorded incident for its 2012 work at the BP refinery.

Photo Left: From left to right: Michael Pleasant, NMAPC Labor Co-Chair and Director of Trade Jurisdiction for the United Association International Union; Doug Strayer, Iron Workers 395 Business Manager; John Phillips, BP Products North America Capital Projects Contracts and Procurement Manager; Tricia Hanrath, Gary Wasemann, Superior Construction Safety Coordinators; Ed Smith, BP Construction Coordinator; Tom Owens, Superior Construction Safety Director; Robert Hoover, NMAPC Management Co-Chair and Vice President for Kvaerner North American Construction; Stephen Lindaver, NMAPC CEO/Impartial Secretary. Photo Right: From left to right: Tricia Hanrath, Superior Construction Safety Coordinator; Tom Owens, Superior Construction Safety Director; Gary Wasemann, Superior Construction Safety Coordinator.

Hagerman Group Honored The Hagerman Group was honored with the Outstanding Large Scale Masonry Achievement Award for their work on The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, at The Indiana Excellence in Masonry Annual Awards Program. The awards ceremony was held Friday, November 16, 2012 at the Indianapolis Marriott East. The Indiana Excellence in Masonry Annual Awards Program honors Indiana projects that exhibited outstanding architectural design, technical competency, demonstrated concern for detailing within the masonry systems, and showed creative exploration of the aesthetic possibilities of masonry.

Photo: From left to right: Evan Sutton, Hagerman Group Director of Masonry Operations; Brandon Bogan, CSO Architects Associate Principal & Studio Leader; Kris Leckron, Hagerman Group Superintendent.

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CAF Breaks Ground on ‘Made in the USA,’ Facility The Construction Advancement Foundation (CAF) broke ground on its brand new, 7,000 square foot Safety Training Institute, adjacent to CAF headquarters in Portage. The building will set out to be Indiana’s first ‘Made in the USA’ building, with all material for the facility’s construction to be domestically manufactured. The new facility will answer rising industry demands for trained workers in a multitude of safety categories with 7,000 square feet of additional space, allowing for hands on training opportunities. “I’m just grateful to be the mayor of the city that gets to house the facility that gets to be the beckon to many other organizations throughout the country, to say ‘Here it is, and welcome to Portage again,” remarked Mayor Snyder, who attended the event along with other notable attendees (see caption below). Construction of the new CAF Safety Training Institute will continue through early next year, with an official opening slated for the second quarter of 2013.

Left: Portage Mayor James Snyder (right) alongside Dewey Pearman, CAF Executive Director, at the groundbreaking ceremony for the CAF’s New Safety Training Facility. Right: The official groundbreaking of the new CAF Safety Training Facility. From left to right: Randy Palmateer, Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Business Manager; Jim Arendas, CAF Environmental Safety and Health Director; Portage Mayor James Snyder; Dewey Pearman, CAF Executive Director; Steve Pangere, Pangere Corporation President; Shawn Kelly, CAF Board President and Duneland Group Manager, and Dan Szany, Carras-Szany Kuhn & Associates Inc., Senior Partner.

Mudd-Ox, Inc. Expands

IBA Wins Two Awards of Excellence

Mudd-Ox Inc., a manufacturer of 6 and 8-wheeled and tracked all-terrain vehicles, and the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation in conjunction with LaGrange County,, announced the expansion of their Shipshewana facility. The project will consist of the purchase of a number of CNC and other machinery and will support the creation of up to 3 new positions, as well as the retention of current staffing levels.

The Indiana Bankers Association (IBA) won two Indiana Society of Association Executives (ISAE) awards of excellence at the ISAE’s Annual Star Awards Gala on Dec. the Impactful Community Philanthropic Program and Outstanding Government Affairs Program categories. The awards were presented at the ISAE’s Annual Star Awards Gala on Dec. 6. The Impactful Community Philanthropic Program award recognized the New Hope Services/Indiana Bankers Association Disaster Relief Fund, which raised more than $380,000 in response to the 2011 tornado outbreak in southern Indiana.

The LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation check presentation to Mudd-Ox Inc. Above from left to right: Ken Mishler, LaGrange Co. Investment Fund Chair; Matt Oxender, MuddOx Owner; Keith Gillenwater, President & CEO LaGrange County EDC, and Mike Rowe, LaGrange County Investment Fund Vice-Chair.

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Photo Left: Amber R.Van Til, IBA Senior VP of Government Relations, is presented with the Outstanding Government Affairs Program Award by Michael Downs, ISAE President-Elect. Photo Right: S. Joe DeHaven (left), IBA President and CEO, accepts the Impactful Community Philanthropic Program award from Michael Downs, ISAE President-Elect. 29

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

Old Dogs Can Learn New Tricks Employers educate, equip employees for new roles By Kevin Comerford, Construction Advancement Foundation

he recent economic crisis forced many business leaders to adopt a philosophy of doing more with less, requiring many, if not all employees to possess ability to multi-task across many platforms. Some employees invariably end up absorbing job responsibilities that may have not even existed five years ago. This is especially true given the current environment of the construction industry. As we continue to navigate the economic waters post-2008, it is incumbent on employers to help their people develop skills outside their normal duties in order to remain competitive in a market inundated with companies looking for work. The Contractor’s ability to transform their workforce into a flexible machine that can adapt to industry pressures will determine whether or not the company survives in this everincreasing competitive environment. History is filled with accounts of once powerful companies that are no longer in business today. Somewhere along the line, these companies became complacent to “do things as they were always done” while their innovative competitors stole the market-share right before their eyes. The one thing that these innovative companies all had in common was a forward-thinking culture that was rooted in pro-active leadership which reverberated throughout the organization. The companies that die tend to have a backward-thinking culture and this typically stems from a reactive leadership style. So what gives a company a forwardthinking mentality that enables them to 30

adapt to pressures and consistently compete? Well the answers vary, but the common theme typically involves a workforce that is adaptable, highly-skilled, and knowledgeable. The forward-thinking company has an organizational structure that emphasizes the knowledge of its greatest asset, its people. Every facet of the chain-ofcommand values the ideas and input from every member within the organization. The workforce is cross-trained so they can pick-up the slack should a break-down occur. They keep an eye on their competition to ascertain more effective and efficient methods of performing work. They create systems of policies and procedures so that the best practices are utilized on a consistent and uniform basis. When something breaks-down in the system, forward-thinking companies take a proactive approach to correct its mistakes by analyzing their policies and procedures and altering the system and adapting for the future. Continuing education is perhaps the most practical way of developing a forward-thinking culture. Companies that systematically monitor the professional development needs of their workforce often possess a competitive advantage that is extremely difficult for other companies to replicate. Companies that encourage personal growth through higher learning tend to be more productive, earn higher profit margins, have happier employees, and low employee turn-over rates. A little investment in developing the quality the people within the organization will certainly pay dividends. It is no wonder many of the world’s leading-edge companies require their employees to attend a minimum number of continuing education

hours per year. Certification training programs can be a great cost-effective way to train your employees. Certification is a higher-level training procedure that ensures a person is certified as being able to competently complete a job or task. Danny Jones with Security Industries firmly believes in incorporating certification training into his business model. He said, “As employees go through the process of earning new certifications, employers have the opportunity to review and assess performance levels of individual employees. Of course, obtaining new certifications gives the employee with a feeling of achievement, and the chance to work their way up to a new position, but it also acts as a tool for employers to benchmark the employee’s progress and individual skill sets.” The whole forward-thinking system relies on the ability of the people within the system. The chain is only as strong as the weakest links. However, when the weakest spots are reinforced with multiple links, the organizational system becomes virtually unbreakable. This is why it is vital to cross-train within the system. Each employee hosts a unique skill-set, and cross-training allows employees to feel empowered in their position, along with creating flexibility when needed. According to Kirt Witham, Director of Business Development with The Ross Group, Inc., “An employee who is trained in multiple positions is a highly valued asset to the organization. Cross training allows your employees to build their professional and technical skills. They will be better at their regular job in addition to being able to stand in for an absent staff member. www.buildingindiananews.com

The employee also benefits from a better sense of their worth to the organization. By building their skill sets they feel more confident and therefore more productive. The added skills will also make them excellent candidates for positions that open up within the organization. Cross training shows the employee not only is the organization investing in them, but through internal promotions they have a career with the organization. This gives the employee a sense of job security which during times like these is a big morale booster.” In an industry like union construction where contractors hire labor from a labor hall, it is vital that the labor organization have a forward-thinking culture as well. If the contractor cannot secure a highlyskilled tradesperson to build a job, the system breaks down. It is necessary for survival that an open line of communication flows between management and labor in order to develop the skills that are required. Some union training centers have recognized that a gray area often exists in field supervision and have determined

that skills of the trade which are learned in an apprenticeship programs are sometime not enough. The Local 395 Ironworkers, along with signatory contractors have recognized a need to develop the skills of foreman and Cross training allows your employees to build their professional and technical skills. They will be better at their regular job in addition to being able to stand in for an absent staff member. - Kirt Witham, Director of Business Development with The Ross Group, Inc.

superintendents in order to better compete in the marketplace. Working together through the Ironworker Management Progressive Action Cooperative Trust (IMPACT), management and labor have developed an entire program to address the need for additional training. This program is designed to train Ironworkers on upper management tasks and methods of managing projects. Doug

Strayer with Local 395 put it this way; “We can only learn so much through experience. Employers recognize the need for continuing education, and how it impacts their company. We recognized the need for advanced education beyond what is obtained through an apprenticeship and experience which is why we have offered the IMPACT program at our Local.” Other than Superintendent training, IMPACT offers Project Management Instruction and Executive training as well. Developing a forward-thinking culture built on knowledge, innovation, and employee adaptability is becoming a necessity in today’s business environment. The ability to survive is going to require a pro-active approach to higher learning and cross-training through every facet of the organization. Positioning your company in this respect will afford you with a competitive advantage that is difficult for the competition to imitate. Moreover, a highly-skilled workforce is more productive which inevitably lead to sustained profitability for years to come.

the Our main focus is your safety.

800-994-2339

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SAFETY ZONE

Biohazards in the Workplace Learn to Detect Potential Workplace Hazards

By: Rob Groszewski, President, Instructor and Program Specialist with Safety Training Services, Inc.

iohazards are not something out of a science fiction movie; they can actually be encountered by anyone at anytime, anywhere. Biohazard, in the simplest terms, is something of biological origin that is harmful to people. “Bio” means life and a “hazard” is basically potential danger.

THINK YOU DON’T HAVE BIOHAZARDS IN YOUR WORKPLACE? • Can you name 3 or more people that have been out sick this month at your workplace? • Do you sit next to ‘that guy’ that keeps sniffling away as he talks on the shared office telephone? • Do you share restrooms with others? • Do you wear gloves to address a coworker’s injuries? • Do you properly dispose of used first aid materials, or feminine care products? • Do you use a copier, or drink coffee from a shared pot? Any of the above examples are biohazard exposures in a workplace. The examples listed fall into Risk Group 2, which is directly related to lost time, production and may contribute to higher medical care costs for companies; but is preventable. By recognizing the various categories of biohazards and risk levels in the workplace, an employer can reduce their staff’s risk of becoming ill.

Categories of Biohazards or Potentially Infectious Materials Identifying risks and potential dangers of biohazards is crucial in maintaining a safe and healthy working environment. There are four risk groups based on their relative hazards, ranging from Risk Group 1 (least hazardous) to Risk Group 4 (most hazardous). Also included is the individual and community risk levels associated with each group. Risk Group 1 – These are agents that are not associated with disease in healthy adults, and represents the least hazardous group. (Low individual; low community) For example, a sneeze. Risk Group 2 – This group is for agents that are rarely serious and for which preventive measures are often available. (High individual; low community) For example, pink eye. Risk Group 3 – This group includes those agents associated with serious or lethal disease where preventive measures may be available. (High individual; low community) For example, the bird flu. Risk Group 4 – The most dangerous group, these are agents that are likely to cause serious or lethal disease. Preventive measures are not usually available. (High individual; high community) For example, the Ebola virus. But what are some more examples of biohazards and how are we exposed or potentially exposed to them daily? Let’s take a look at the 8 different categories of biohazards. • Human, animal and plant pathogens. • Bacteria, plasmids, fungi, viruses,

• • • • • • •

parasites, and prions (protein in misfolded form). All human blood, blood products, tissues and certain body fluids. Cultured cells (all human and certain animal). Allergens. Toxins. Certain recombinant (generic recombination) products. Clinical specimens. Infected animals and animal tissues.

Threat Level Outbreaks from biohazards happen every day across the world. Examples of pathogens and infectious diseases include the Influenza virus, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis viruses, Salmonella bacteria, cholera, malaria and hundreds of other microorganisms. Bacteria, viruses and parasites are responsible for millions of deaths worldwide from communicable diseases. Pathogens infect billions of people worldwide and are especially prevalent in developing countries. Urbanization, poor sanitation, broken water infrastructure, reduced food safety, globalization, international travel, extreme weather, and the rising costs of new drugs, vaccines and antibiotics also account for a rise in infections/deaths. The good news is that many of these deaths are preventable. So how do we avoid potentially harmful situations? Managing Risks/OSHA Compliance in the Workplace The workplace must be made compliant with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations with biohazardous material www.buildingindiananews.com

by taking appropriate precautions. Biohazardous materials should have appropriate signage and proper labeling. If this has not been done, be sure to keep said signage and labels up to date. A few more “typical” policies and procedures in a workplace setting might include: making sure to wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) which may include masks, outerwear (suit/coat), eye protection and gloves; and disinfecting items with a 10 percent solution of bleach or denatured alcohol. Risk Assessment In a workplace where biohazardous materials are potentially present, a director or principal investigator should have the responsibility to conduct a risk assessment to make sure that the work practices and containment requirements for the biohazardous material are appropriate. This process should identify features of the material(s) and the environmental factors that may allow for the workers to have exposure to the biohazard. The risk assessment is a very important tool in evaluating risk of a biohazardous material/environment. Make sure to consider some certain factors when evaluating risk: pathogenicity (the more severe; the higher the risk), route of transmission (air, land, water, etc.), stability, infectious dose, concentration, origin, availability of data, and experience or skill level of at-risk personnel. If there is a risk of exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace, an exposure control plan must be developed. An exposure control plan contains the following information: • A summary of the job duties that may expose workers to risk. • Who is at risk and of what? (Disease, infection, etc.) • How the disease may be transmitted. • What the risk level is. • The control measure that will protect staff. Once the exposure control plan is complete, educate and train employees at risk on the plan and the control measures; and remember to review the plan annually and any time there is a change in the workplace that may change or introduce new exposures. The World Health Organization (WHO) publishes a free downloadable Biosafety Manual with practical guidance on biosafety techniques for use at all levels. The manual now covers, as stated on the WHO website, “risk assessment and safe use of recombinant DNA technology, and provides guidelines for the commissioning and certification of laboratories. Laboratory biosecurity concepts are introduced, and the latest regulations for the transport of infectious substances are reflected. Material on safety in healthcare laboratories, previously published elsewhere by WHO, has also been incorporated.” Even if you are not in a laboratory setting, risks must be identified. Other resources are available to help identify your risks, help with appropriate signage and how to train your employees on minimizing risks. Are you looking for more information now? Simply type “Biohazards in the Workplace” into a search engine (e.g. Google, Yahoo) and expand your knowledge on biohazards as they relate to your workplace. www.buildingindiananews.com

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BOTTOM LINE

How Can Using Webinars Help My Business?

By Nick Dmitrovich

n today’s fast-paced world, training our employees faster and more efficiently is a top priority. A webinar (or online seminar) can be an effective method for presenting information in a live and interactive way, allowing the potential for thousands of users to be instructed at the same time from all around the world. Recent trends in webinars have shown an increase in integration with other programs, content marketing and networking through social media. With the popularity of webinars and webcasts growing, many companies are beginning to take advantage of the benefits they can bring. Anita Wehnert, Director of Product Marketing with ReadyTalk, explained some of these recent trends. She said, “We’re working with partners like Marketo to automatically capture webinar data in their platform so marketers can act on it instantly – driving timely and relevant follow-up, lead scoring, and audience segmentation into different nurturing programs based on audience behavior.” She went on to elaborate on some of the ways webinars can be used for marketing saying, “While the live webinar is valuable in and of itself, webinars provide a rich source for high-value content to use in your ongoing content marketing efforts. You can really get a lot more bang for your buck by thinking beyond the end of the live event.” 34

Some suggestions she offered for creating webinar content designed for marketing included: • Designating the recording as an on-demand event for audiences who missed it the first time. • Breaking the recording into smaller sections that focus on a single key point each • Crafting a blog to share key items from the recording and a recap of any Q&A • Transcribing the event into a readable format, possibly for e-books The structure of a webinar can be dynamic, allowing companies to get right down to the heart of the message they are trying to convey. Rather than a traditional presentation which often contains a lot of background on the company before presenting the product, a webinar provides more freedom to highlight the main benefits a company is trying to present and then further information can be given through the following Q&A sessions. Dr. Mark Steinhofer, a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) with Safety Management Group, spoke about the benefits of today’s businesses using webinars. “Webinars are the wave of the future www.buildingindiananews.com

due to the transient workforces of today’s time continually moving and evolving (Mobile offices). Webinars, much like cell phones, tablets, PC’s, and other electronic devices help professionals stay in tune with the world and others by not having the same constraints that a classroom/ meeting room would provide,” he said. Steinhofer added that, “It’s the way the industry is going. The reason for host them is the ability to touch a larger audience because of the usability.” He went on to describe the benefits of using webinars instead of a traditional classroom setting, breaking it down into two categories; benefits to education, and to the business. Steinhofer also offered some guidelines for how to determine what material is appropriate for a webinar, and what materials are better suited for a class. “Materials that are theory based, diverse to a broad audience, and material presented with no expectation of return communication are good for webinars,” he said, “While practical understanding concepts (like putting on a safety Harness), are better for classes.” Isaac Arthur, an author with e3webcasting, wrote, “The world is waking up to the exciting and valuable potential that webcasting can bring. Webcasting is a prime option for any business, conference or any other organization or event to consider.” He also shared some statistics on webinar and webcasting trends gathered from ClickMeeting. 8,197 online meetings were looked at over a six-month period and the numbers showed that only roughly 32% of companies are not using webinars. Of the majority of companies that are using them, more than half of those companies run between 4 and 27 webinars a month. People can also use webinars to communicate with colleagues from around the globe. In the study that was conducted by ClickMeeting, there was an average of 2 countries participating in each meeting, with the record being 54 countries in total. This means that web seminars are www.buildingindiananews.com

a global phenomenon that spans across geographic borders and works to bring companies closer to their customers, partners and associates. And the final item to be considered as an advantage webinars bring is cutting down costs for businesses in general. Beyond the requirement for hardware and internet service, which most companies already have, the software required to run webinars is primarily free. Add this into the reduced travel expenses, and anyone can see the fiscal reasons for using webinars.

Webinar benefits •

Shared learning for many locations Business to Businesses

•

A low overhead (no meeting rooms, locations, etc.) for participates

•

No travel cost - the ease of being somewhere without physically being there.

•

Benefit of being able to capture the material being presented by the speaker at in real time to play back at a later date.

Facing the industry’s toughest challenges head-on You want a contractor who can keep you a step ahead. Graycor Industrial brings over eight decades of experience to the power, metals and process markets. We deliver expertise for your toughest challenges, self performance capabilities for your most sophisticated jobs, and planning for the long term. Think beyond what you need today. Start building something more. Call (630) 684-7110

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BEING PRODUCTIVE

Overpaying Employees When is enough, enough? By Nick Dmitrovich

ost employers aren’t as greedy as Ebenezer Scrooge – they have an earnest desire to pay their employees a better-than-average wage. In this current economic climate it is often impossible to find the extra finances to move into payroll. But for those who can, there may be unintended consequences of overpaying employees beyond the established industry standards. How can overpaying my employees be a bad thing? There are several, often unconsidered, reasons why a fatter paycheck can cause employees problems down the road. In a recent article authored by Doug and Polly White, Principals of Whitestone Partners, a management/consulting firm that helps small businesses build up the infrastructure need to grow profitwise, the duo stipulated that often in situations where employees are paid 50 to 100 percent higher than they would be paid elsewhere they do not recognize that they are overpaid. This will ultimately lead to the employee building a lifestyle for them-

selves that cannot be sustained by less than the current income. “Most of us believe that we are worth more than we are currently being paid,” the Whites wrote, “At most, we think we are paid fairly.” Thus when individuals do not realize that they are overpaid, they begin to become comfortable with their current situation. If a time ever arose when that individual moves to another company, or another position/title, they would be using their adjusted rate of pay almost entirely to satisfy the debt they accrued while employed in the higher-paying position. Many Americans fall into the wicked trap of living beyond their means. Falling into the pit of debt is a fall that many people never ever rise up from. What happens to the employee if the company or position falters? “Many people who find themselves out of work will try to replace the income they have just lost,” the Whites wrote, “They believe they can because they think they are worth what they were making. Refusal to accept lower-paying jobs lengthens unemployment and makes matters worse.” www.buildingindiananews.com

Take for example a situation in Northwest Indiana where a recent college graduate was employed as an Educator at a public school, making roughly $30,000 a year. Now, $30K a year might not seem like an overpaid amount for a first-year teacher (the average pay in Indiana for a first-year teacher is listed at around roughly $35K), but it is still much more money than the individual made while working his way through college. Mid-way through his first year the teacher begins paying down his weighty student loan, and he also makes a down payment on a new vehicle. These debts are easily sustainable under his current financial situation – but what is the individual supposed to do when he finds out at the end of the year that the offer for continued employment does not exist? (Many school corporations will hire an individual for a year, and then let them go in favor of taking on another first-year teacher, at first-year pay) Trying to find a position with an equal or greater rate of pay, in the current economic climate, can often be an extremely difficult task – but that will not stop the bill collectors from calling. If the individual cannot afford to move to a new area that has open positions in his career field, then he is left with no other option other than to accept whatever positiowns he finds. Perhaps he only finds options delivering pizzas after an extended period of time. Now he’s making less than half of what he made the previous year with the same level of debt to satisfy. “It may sound odd, but in our years of experience, we have found that the most unfair thing an employer can do is to pay an employee significantly more than a freemarket wage. Doing so sets the employee up for financial ruin when the gravy train comes to an end,” the Whites wrote.

that goes above and beyond, an attitude that is above the standard and stronger stills to deserve the higher salary. When this doesn’t happen, if the performance levels of the employee are simply average, tension can build when the employee makes workplace requests like time off, or added incentives. Tension like this can fester into a real problem, causing strain between the employee/employer relationships. What follows would most likely be further decrease in performance, and certainly a lack of motivation on the part of the em-

ployee to do their job well. Overpaying a staff member also makes it difficult for the employer to justify raises or increases in benefits when they feel the employee is already overpaid. There will also be no wiggle room to reward extra performance or length of time worked. As a result, the employee may simply quit or wind up being terminated from employment. Employers need to take special consideration when establishing employee pay rates to find the comfortable balance that works in favor of both the company and the staff members.

What about Expectations? When an employee is receiving compensation beyond the industry-average salary, the employer will naturally expect a higher quality of work from that individual. For example, if an employer is paying someone $30 an hour, they would most likely be expecting to see a performance www.buildingindiananews.com

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Locally Made Brews Brings Dollars to the Community By Nick Dmitrovich

plans for the original Jaymar/Ruby Sans-A-Belt manufacturing

building that are multi-purposeful, making it enticing for patrons

fter a long day of work, wouldn’t you like to fill your stom-

and businesses to use the facility.

ach with a well deserved, World Beer Cup Award Winning

A portion of the new property will be used to expand the

Ale? Well, to all you beer drinkers out there, there’s a gem

existing beer garden while other plans are being created for us-

hiding in Michigan City, Indiana.

ing part of the building as a catering facility. In addition to these

The Shoreline Brewery is a brewery and restaurant that sits

plans Strupeck is working toward designing meeting rooms for

near the shores of Lake Michigan and serves delicious beers like

corporate functions, an upstairs lounge for more relaxed and ca-

the World Beer Cup Award winning Beltaine Scottish Ale (2006,

sual corporate gatherings and retreats, and using a portion of the

2008 and 2012 winner in San Diego), the Singing Sands Oatmeal

building as a production facility for a one hundred barrel brew

Stout and other seasonal beers such as Samuel Jacksons Black

house capable of producing over 20 thousand barrels per year,

IPA, Bavarian Bombshell Black Lager, and the Barrel Aged Impe-

which amounts to 40 thousand kegs. With the new options cre-

rial Stout Lost Sailor. Shoreline was also a winner at the 10th An-

ated for the public and businesses to use at the new facility, Stru-

nual Festival of Wood and Barrel Aged Beer held in Chicago, Il-

peck has stated that he estimates Shoreline Brewery will create

linois in November of 2012.

50 to 100 jobs within the next five to seven years, greatly contrib-

In the eight years that it’s been open for business, the Shoreline Brewery has grown into much more than just a brewery.

uting to the growth of economic development to Michigan City and Northwest Indiana.

Shoreline is popular with ale-aficionados for its ever growing list

“Besides employing over 30 employees currently, our expan-

of beers, but food connoisseurs will be pleased to discover that

sion will bring in new jobs,” said David Dabagia, Marketing Man-

the Chef at Shoreline has an advanced knowledge of fine dining

ager with Shoreline. “We’re also getting ready to begin bottling

and a wealth of culinary experience to please the taste buds of all

two of our brews soon. The restaurant itself is a tourist desti-

the hungry visitors who stop by.

nation; we’ve had visitors come in all the way from California.

There’s the Shoreline Mac and Cheese to try, the popular

People base their trips seeing our brewery and other micro-brew-

Pub Burger, and also many entrées to try such as the Stuffed

eries, and while they’re here they shop at the other businesses

Chicken Breast with Spinach, Artichoke, Sun Dried Tomato, Feta

around us and help elevate the community.”

and Basil, accompanied by Roasted Garlic Smashed Potatoes and a Julienne Vegetable Saute.

“Shoreline Brewery has become a destination attraction in Michigan City. People come to the city specifically to visit Shoreline Brewery. These guests then use other local businesses as a

How Does Shoreline Boost the Local Economy?

result. They may come for the beer, but money is being spent at

In September of 2012, Sam Strupeck, owner of Shoreline

other businesses as well. Also, the national recognition for our

Brewery and Restaurant, purchased Pyramid Building, formally

beers has helped put the word out about our brewery and Michi-

Rag Tops Auto Museum, which sat adjacent to the Shoreline

gan City,” said Tim Jongsma, General Manager of Shoreline.

Brewery property. Strupeck has a business plan of expansion for

In addition to the job creation that the new facilities will

the building that would create 20 new jobs instantly. He also has 38

www.buildingindiananews.com

bring, Shoreline also hosts special charitable functions. For the entire month of February every Thursday a different small batch stout will be unveiled along with a chop entrée – Shoreline’s calling it Stout and Chop month, and 100% of the sales of weekly special stouts will be donated to Pancreatic Cancer Research. Shoreline Promotes Buying Local through Special Events Shoreline also features a diverse variety of live music performances nearly each weekend, ranging from local artists to nationally known ones. Recent events held in early January included internationally renowned guitar virtuoso Eric Mantel of the Steve Vai Digital Nations record label, and Liz Berlin

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHORELINE BREWERY The Pyramid Building was purchased in Spetember of 202, with plans that include expanding the exsiting beer garden, and more. Up to 100 jobs within the next five to seven years will be created.

from the popular and nationally celebrat-

Chicagoland and other surrounding areas.

“We’re proud of the draw,” Dabagia

ed band Rusted Root.

Visitors come to Michigan City to see the

said, “People like the vibe of our establish-

acts and in turn help stimulate the local

ment and the artists have begun telling

economy where they shop, stay and eat.

other artists about our location.”

Artists like these attract fans from all over the region, even reaching far up into

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CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

Construction Underway at Purdue’s Herrick Laboratories

By Nick Dmitrovich

creative concepts for both its design as a multi-purpose structure and for the myriad of research concepts that it will contain. $30+ million expansion of the Ray W. Herrick The goal of the building is to be a “smart” building that will be Laboratories is underway at Purdue University’s useful and adaptable well into the future. Herrick will contain the main campus in West Lafayette. Construction began Center for High Performance Buildings, which will include new on April 1, 2011 for the new facility which will become equipment and operational technologies for research to make “hub of industry-oriented research in areas ranging from future buildings safer, more environmentally and user friendly, energy efficient, and comfortable. advanced automotive technologies to “smart” buildings.” Purdue has stated that Herrick will be a “Living laboratory;” The new building will sit near State Street and Martin Jischke Drive, and represents the start of a multi-phase, 68,000-square- a working office designed with replaceable modular elements foot rebuilding project that will essentially double the size of (moveable walls, doors and windows), a reconfigurable air the labs. The National Institute of Standards and Technology is distribution and lighting system, and instrumentation to monitor providing nearly half of the funding for the project, $11.75 million, systems and occupants, built to test and validate new building systems and concepts. Patricia Davies said, “Researchers will be and the other half is coming largely from private donors, “Herrick’s expanded capabilities will enhance Purdue’s able to use the living laboratory including $3.5 million from ability to attack the challenges surrounding major to test and validate new building alumnus Roger Gatewood and issues, including energy conservation and indoor- systems and concepts. One of the major challenges will be a $2 million contribution from environmental health.” to develop an understanding mechanical engineering alumnus - Former President of Purdue France A. Córdova of the relationships between Gerald D. Hines. The Ford Fund indoor environments and human also donated an additional $3.5 health and productivity, leading to the design of better building million toward this laboratory and its associated research as systems.” Davies’s work is part of a multidisciplinary research well as the Herrick Foundation which made a $1 million dollar contribution to the construction project. Construction is group that will use a Perception Based Engineering Laboratory in Herrick. expected to be completed around late summer of 2013. She added that, “In this laboratory it will be possible to In an article from Purdue Engineering’s Impact, Former President of Purdue France A. Córdova said, “Herrick’s expanded simulate a wide span of building environments. The research capabilities will enhance Purdue’s ability to attack the challenges will lead to the development of models of human impact that surrounding major issues, including energy conservation and could be used in the development of advanced building control strategies tested in the living laboratory.” The facility will also indoor-environmental health.” Leah Jamieson, Purdue’s John A. Edwardson Dean of house components of an FAA multi-university center specializing Engineering and Ransburg Distinguished Professor of Electrical on an airliner cabin’s environment.

and Computer Engineering said, “Research in the Herrick facilities will help to create buildings that are better for the environment, more comfortable and healthier for people. Future building designs will lead to dramatic improvements in health and productivity.” What Will the New Herrick Building Offer? The new Herrick expansion will offer many innovative and 40

What Kinds of Research Will Take Place at Herrick? The Herrick Laboratories are part of Purdue’s School of Mechanical Engineering. The 10 to 20 members that make up the Mechanical Engineering faculty conduct interdisciplinary research projects with the faculty in the other schools of Engineering and the College of Science and the College of Liberal Arts. Purdue states that within Herrick there are four main www.buildingindiananews.com

technical areas of research with some over arching themes related to energy utilization and efficiency, reduction of pollutants in the environment, quality of life, and sustainability and safety. The four main research areas include: Thermal Systems and Air Quality; Noise and Vibration Control; Electromechanical Systems: controls, signal processing, sensing, estimation, diagnostics and prognostics. Modeling of Human Response for Machine and System Optimization The applications of which include: smart buildings, alternative refrigerants, self diagnosing systems, noise reduction in transportation, energy efficient machines, environmental noise, compressors, appliances, electronic equipment cooling, new refrigeration cycles, aircraft interior air management, mitigation of chemical and biological transport in buildings, engine controls to optimize use of alternative fuels, after-treatment systems for engines, power generation, tire-road surface design to reduce community noise, printer design, and tactile communications interfaces. What Implications Does This Project Have for Indiana’s Future? The bottom line for this entire construction project is investing in new technologies and structural designs that are meant to save money and energy down the road, not just for Purdue, but for everyone. Just one small example of this would be the fact that the majority of energy in the United States is consumed by buildings (James Braun, Purdue University Professor of Mechanical Engineering, said that commercial buildings in the U.S. account for 70% of our energy usage). The new Herrick’s Labs would be working to develop buildings that are much more energy efficient though better control of air-conditioning and refrigeration systems in buildings. How much money would your business save if your electric bill was cut in half? In addition, Purdue has stated that the economic impact related to health and lost productivity caused by poor indoor environments is estimated to be www.buildingindiananews.com

about $200 billion per year in the United States. Poor indoor environments can cause many different types of illnesses, including respiratory illness, allergies and asthma, and musculoskeletal disorders. Buildings located near busy roads, trains and airports are susceptible to air quality issues, noise and vibration. The technology developed through the research in the new Herrick’s Labs will work to combat these problems and lead future generations into better designed “smarter” facilities more conducive to productivity, better usage and energy efficiency.

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COVER STORY

Indiana’s Academics and Economics How we stack up to the nation

By: Nick Dmitrovich

ducation. Education. Education. Everywhere you look these days there are hot-button topics relating to education popping up – especially among our politicians and legislators. Many individuals and organizations are pushing for educational reform, but regardless of any political 44

affiliation, what are the larger effects that a quality education can have on our nation’s economy? How does Indiana’s performance stack up against the rest of the country? Determining the effect education has on our society will equip the employer with knowledge on hiring and keeping a competitive workforce. The ways in which the educational achievement

hierarchy affects impacts our society has changed significantly changed over the generations. In the Post-WW2 era, many people entered the workforce immediately after graduating high school or returning from military service. It was considered a lofty achievement to graduate high school in the first place – because a college degree was unobtainable for many Americans. This www.buildingindiananews.com

Council said. is not to say that higher education had a statistics across the rest of the country. The Report Card listed Indiana as For high schools and the preceding reduced value in those years, but was not as critical as it is today, however raising elementary grades, the American being ranked 17th out of 50, receiving a family without a college education was Legislative Exchange Council provided B grade overall. 31% of students in the their 17th edition of its Report Card on 8th grade, and 32% of students in the 4th considered the norm. Today, graduating from high American Education in early 2012. The grade, were listed as scoring proficient school is a mile-stone accomplishment report details a comprehensive overview or higher. The Indiana Department of and college degrees have become of achievement levels in education for Education reported in October of 2012 increasingly necessary to obtain a each of the 50 states and the District that “more than 61 percent of Indiana’s fiscally stable career. With the extremely of Colombia, focusing on performance schools received A or B letter grades for the 2011-2012 school year. In competitive job market, college degrees do not guarantee “The Report Card listed Indiana as being ranked 17th out total, 40.9 percent of schools earned A’s, 20.1 percent of people employment in the same of 50, receiving a B grade overall.” schools earned Bs, and 20.3 way that they used to. Today, if - Former President of Purdue France A. Córdova percent of schools earned Cs. employed, the average college Only 18.6 percent of schools graduate will earn more money than the non-college graduate, according and gains/growth. The forward to the earned D or F grades, similar to last to the National Center for Education report was written by Indiana’s former year’s percentage and lower than in the Statistics. This is similar to how it was Governor Mitch Daniels, as much of the 2009-2010 school year. This year, 207 in the Post-WW2 era, but what differs report focused on the reforms recently schools received A’s for the first time.” “These fair and comprehensive between the two generations is the enacted in Indiana. “This Report Card necessity of higher education in today’s on American Education examines the measures of school performance experiences other states can learn from demonstrate that school leaders and workforce. With the high number of students the struggles and triumphs in Indiana,” teachers are focusing on the skills our obtaining a post-high school degree, the American Legislative Exchange students need to succeed in their America should be riding the crest of a wave taller than Mount Everest – but unfortunately, we are not. According to LAND CNBC, the nation has an above-average unemployment rate and an economy INDUSTRIAL that is, unable to be defined due to the complicated nature of all its faults. There is no single factor that has brought the economy into this RETAIL predicament, and there is not a clearly defined factor that can lift it out, but the question begs to be asked - what are the larger implications of quality education’s effect on the economy; and how can we LEASING begin to mend our situation by improving education?

OFFICE

What’s Education Like in Indiana? In order to determine which course of educational action would most benefit the economy, understanding the current educational position is necessary. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Indiana’s educational system is doing quite well compared to the average performance

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academic and professional careers,” said Tony Bennett, former Superintendent of the Indiana Department of Education. That being said, it is clear that Indiana’s educational standing is maintaining a stronger position than much of the country – what does this mean in terms of our economic future? What is the Direct Impact of Education? We know that the housing market and the cost of fuel throughout the country directly impacts the economic state, but what about education? A report from the National Center for Education Statistics published a few years ago called Education and the Economy: An Indicators Report detailed that, “The productivity of the U.S. work force is a primary determinant of the standard of living of the U.S. population. Worker productivity is typically measured as output per worker or per-hour worked. It is affected by many factors, including the education and skills of the work force. Education and skills are important because they expand a worker’s capacity to perform tasks or to use productive technologies. In addition, higher educated employees adapt easily to new tasks or to changes in old tasks. Education prepares workers to work more effectively in teams because it enhances their ability to communicate with and understand their co-workers.” Think of the entire workforce population as a massively organized athletic team. It goes without saying that the better trained your players are, the more competitive they will be

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when game night comes. The playing field (in this instance, the economy) is unpredictable and constantly shifting advantages from one side to the other. Team mates need to be able to think on their feet and adapt to these changes if they are going to succeed – and thus, providing more education and training to the workforce population will lead to a prolonged future for the entirety of society’s industries. The report stated that, “Worker productivity in the United States has grown almost continuously since the end of World War II, rising to a level in 1994 that is approximately three times that of 1947,” and the rise of education can be directly attributed to this growth. College enrollment has risen in a corresponding fashion similar to productivity over the decades; just one small example from the National Center for Education Statistics is the fact that the “percentage of 18to 24-year-olds enrolled in college rose from 35 percent in 2000 to 41 percent in 2010” – and that is only a recent number,

Indiana Colleges and Universities in 2010-2011: •

Indiana has a total of 109 degree-granting institutions across the state, compared to the national average of 90

•

The total Fall enrollment was higher than the national average by 40,751 people (Indiana = 441,294, national average = 400,543)

•

The total number of degrees awarded in Indiana was higher than the national average by 5,422 degrees (Indiana awarded 83,650 degrees and the national average was 78,228)

•

By category Indiana awarded more Bachelor’s degrees than the national average in 2011 by 9,334 total degrees (Indiana awarded 41,687 Bachelor’s degrees and the national average was 32,353)

•

Master’s degrees were also higher in Indiana by nearly 100 total degrees awarded (Indiana awarded 13,673 Master’s degrees and the national average was 13,588)

the college enrollment growth rate since the 1950’s is considerably higher. The Education and Economy report states that, “Growth in education has historically been an important source

of growth in worker productivity. Increases in educational attainment were responsible for an estimated 11 to 20 percent of growth in worker productivity in the United States in

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recent decades. Education appears to play an important role in worker productivity in all industrialized countries. The industrialized countries with the highest productivity levels tend to have highly educated work forces, and the convergence in productivity among these countries generally parallels that in educational attainment.” The report clearly outlines that education was not the only factor adding to productivity growth, but instead worked behind the scenes as a driving force behind the other elements. “Growth in factors other than education have also contributed to worker productivity. For example, increases in capital accounted for an estimated 40 percent of growth in worker productivity in the United States from 1948 to 1990. In addition to capital, factors as technical innovation, foreign trade, and government regulation can also affect productivity,” the report states. These additional growth factors stem from developments made through education. The two other aspects of the economy that are most directly correlated with the effects of education are unemployment and average household income. “Workers with higher educational attainment are unemployed less and earn more than workers with lower educational attainment,” the report states, “Over the past 30 years, a substantial proportion of high school graduates and dropouts were unemployed shortly after leaving high school, with dropouts generally facing a higher unemployment rate than graduates. In 1994, 30 percent of recent dropouts were

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unemployed, compared to 20 percent of recent graduates not enrolled in college. Median earnings are positively associated with educational attainment.” Additional details outlined reflected college graduates make an average of 50% more money per year than high school graduates, and more than twice as much as high school dropouts. So Where Do We Go From Here? Indiana’s educational system is strong, and the general state of Indiana’s economy is faring better than the national averages. Throughout Indiana, colleges and universities are making plans for expansion to both their physical facilities and their academic programs in an effort to boost the caliber of student that they output. One example is the new cooperative education program that Purdue trustees approved in October of 2012. “The program has several benefits for students,” said Victor Lechtenberg,

2012’s acting Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Purdue, “Students will be able to observe what they have learned in the classroom and also gain a better understanding of others in a work environment. They also will get a better idea of the opportunities for which they are best suited, gain confidence and have a smoother transition into a job when they graduate. The program will bring information on current industrial, business and government practices back to the classroom. It also will help improve relations with the industrial, business and government communities.” Purdue is also currently undertaking a massive expansion to the campus’s Herrick Laboratories where research into smarter buildings designs will be conducted with the goal of creating safer and more energy efficient structures. Indiana University completed a New Academics Report in 2011 that detailed numerous changes the university plans to make to enhance the future of

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academics. The report recommended continuing to make strategic investments in existing and new programs despite funding reductions, and reducing administrative barriers to encourage innovative alignments among academic units. In addition, IU also created the new Schools of Global and International Studies, The School of Public Health, The School of Informatics and Computing and a new degree program in Environmental Sustainability Studies. Fresh and innovative programs like the ones being implemented at Purdue and IU are the future catalysts for economic growth. New industries, new careers, new paths of exploration and a revitalized economy will develop from the seed of education. The available statistics speak for themselves – a better trained/educated workforce leads to more growth in productivity, and increased levels of productivity leads to a much stronger economy. Thus education has a direct correlation with the economic success of a nation.

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CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

Colleges are Planning Brighter FutureS Indiana colleges plan for higher education, better-training By: Nick Dmitrovich

ducation has a direct impact on the state of the economy, and as such colleges and universities all over the nation are developing plans for expansion and new academic programs to keep pace with the competitive global marketplace. Indiana is among the top states in the nation with regard to those seeking higher education, and universities have expansion plans to remain at the forefront. Ball State University “This semester we moved into our newly remodeled facilities,” said Janet Fick, Architect, LEED-AP, Instructor of Technology, CM Academic Advisor with Ball State’s Construction Management Department, “A portion of a construction on campus to the Applied Technology building, was remodeled specifically for the Construction Management program. It includes a materials lab, classroom, computer lab, seminar room, and all CM faculty offices. Another renovation also includes a large entrance lobby, which will become a gathering spot for our students. These advancements are possible by generous donations.” “Our new seminar room includes a smart board and our new computer lab includes the latest versions of Revit, AutoCAD, Primavera, OnCenter, Ecotect and Navisworks. Both of these spaces, in addition our new classroom, have state of the art projection equipment.” 52

“Our Bachelor Degree program received accreditation in 2012 from ACCE. We also have a Construction Management minor, which is populated with predominantly Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Interior Design majors. We also have several exciting opportunities going on with our students, including our on-going immersive learning project with Habitat for Humanity, participation in the Green Energy Challenge and Solar Decathlon.” Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana Jeff Fanter, Vice President of Communications and Marketing with Ivy Tech Community College, shared a list of expansions and renovations that the college is planning. “Some ideas for expansion depending on funding, include: Indianapolis Fall Creek Expansion, Anderson Campus, Bloomington Expansion, Gary Campus, South Bend Health Sciences, Lafayette Enterprise Center, Sellersburg Science and Health, Evansville Campus, Indianapolis Expansion, Michigan City Expansion Renovation, and other renovations and improvements to Muncie, Kokomo, Columbus and Greencastle,” Fanter said. “We have recently launched a virtual student success/help center that provides improved access to increased self-help information for students 24/7 and access to customer service agents 18 hours a day via the phone. We’re also launching a new, one-stop service model for students allowing faster and increased customer service.

Staff will be using new software allowing them access to increased information about the students, to better assist them on campus.” He also outlined some academic programs the college is planning on adding to the curriculum. He listed, “Diesel Mechanics, Advanced Cyber Security Certifications, Sieman’s Certifications (manufacturing), Occupational Therapy Assistant, Supply Chain Management/Logistics, Additional Distribution and Logistics Certifications.” IU Bloomington In September of 2012, the Indiana Business Journal reported that Indiana University in Bloomington is planning an $8 million expansion to its online degree programs. The investment will be made over the next three years and will help fulfill the goal of “extending the school’s global reach through online technologies.” IU has fifteen years of online education experience under its belt already, and the new initiatives will “add to the university’s years of experience in online education by creating undergraduate and graduate degree programs, providing online options for high enrollment undergraduate courses and exploring new education methods,” officials have stated. IU’s Office of Online Education will be administering all of the university’s online courses. “We will bring the same energy, enthusiasm and commitment to IU Online as we devote to on-campus education,” IU President Michael A. McRobbie said. He added www.buildingindiananews.com

that the university will be utilizing new technologies that are restructuring higher education. The $8 million investment will be going toward hiring web designers and technicians, and will also be used to acquire new computer systems and fund the Office of Online Education. Money also will go to IU’s other academic campuses to develop online programs. One component of this new project involves developing new programs that can add to the strength of Indiana’s workforce and shorten the time it takes students to earn their degrees. IU’s regional campuses will work together to develop new undergraduate degree programs, oriented toward workforce development. Valparaiso University Valparaiso University’s President Mark Heckler spoke in September 2012 about how VU has completed a 20 year master plan that will focus on expanding the university northwest toward downtown Valparaiso and will be consolidating many of its academic buildings in one area. Developments are also being planned for the Harre Union and the Chapel of the Resurrection buildings. “It’s an exciting time for the University,” Heckler said. He also added that the university’s last master plan was written in the 1980s and every item on the list came to fruition. Valparaiso University is looking to expand its student population by 50 percent, though it is unclear when that will occur. As such, the 2012 master plan also includes new and repurposed academic buildings, athletic facilities on the former Porter Hospital site (now owned by VU), improved housing for students and a new parking garage by the Union. “There was a terrific opportunity when the old Porter Hospital site became available,” said Neal Kessler, a planner with Smith Group JJR. “The university was able to purchase that, and it helped us make the case to reach out toward the downtown area.” Plans also detail a new wellness center and soccer fields. Notre Dame Recently in January of 2013, Notre Dame announced that “the university has www.buildingindiananews.com

been selected to lead one of six new university microelectronics research centers that will share $194 million in funding from the Semiconductor Research Corp. (SRC) and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).” The new center is designed “to support the continued growth and leadership of the U.S. semiconductor industry” and will be titled the Center for Low Energy Systems Technology (LEAST). Over the next five years, $40 million will be dedicated annually to the program, with each center receiving about $6 million, Notre Dame said.

“One of the greatest challenges facing our technological world today is the amount of energy consumed by electronics of all types, and the new Low Energy Systems Technology Center led by Alan C. Seabaugh (Professor of Electrical Engineering) will lead to new devices, circuits and architectures that consume considerably less energy. Alan and his team are making an enormous contribution to the world of the 21st century,” said Peter Kilpatrick, McCloskey Dean of Notre Dame’s College of Engineering, in a release from Notre Dame.

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LOGISTICS

Our Indiana Roads

n 2012, Indiana led the nation in the caused by congestion or inefficient through travelers between US 41 south number of intersecting highways, routes,” according to Wil Wingfield, and I-70 east; Improve access to and further contributing to the state’s INDOT Office of Communications. “These between commercial transportation hubs reputation regarding its consistently access improvements are noticed by site and the Vigo County Industrial Park; and superior logistic grades. 2012 was also selection officials, along with Indiana’s Reduce the overall rate and severity of a banner year for investors relocating competitive tax structure and solid fiscal accidents along US 41.” Two new large bridge projects are also their operations to the Hoosier state who house.” INDOT is also starting planning on being undertaken by INDOT. One is the also wish to take advantage of Indiana’s several projects to improve the efficient Ohio Rive Bridges Project which will “meet transportation advantages. the cross-river transportation According to the Indiana Department “Economic impact studies and practical experience show the needs of the Louisville and Indiana region of Transportation greatest economic benefits are derived once transportation Southern (INDOT), “In late 2005, projects open to traffic. Projects that just opened late last year, through construction of one former Governor such as I-69 Evansville to Crane, Accelerate 465, and U.S. 24/ of the largest transportation improvements in the nation.” Mitch Daniels launched Fort to Port will accrue benefits for motorists and businesses.” Kentucky will be responsible an aggressive 10-year - Wil Wingfield, INDOT Office of Communications for the Downtown Crossing transportation plan, while Indiana will take known as “Major Moves,” to significantly improve and moving of freight throughout the state and responsibility for the East End Crossing. expand Indiana’s highway infrastructure. to assist in reducing traffic in congested The second bridge project is the MiltonA total of $2.6 billion was committed to areas. One such project is the Terre Haute Madison Bridge which will replace the Major Moves from the long-term lease of Bypass, or SR 641. This new route will deteriorating US 421 Ohio River Bridge the Indiana Toll Road and the plan called function as a bypass going around Terre between Milton, KY and Madison, IN. for 104 new roadways by 2015 with 1,600 Haute; connecting US 41 south of Terre The interesting thing about the MiltonHaute to SR 46 at I-70. INDOT says that, Madison Bridge is that the structure will lane miles.” “Projects being built under “The bypass will: Provide better access remain open to traffic for all but ten days Governor Daniels’ Major Moves to Vigo County residents through an of the construction process. Projects like these are reasons why program have opened up tens to alternative route around the congested hundreds of thousands of acres for segment of US 41; Improve conditions many industries have begun to take a business development and addressed along US 41 for users accessing congested serious look at Indiana for their future unnecessary barriers to commerce commercial areas; Provide a bypass for development needs. With the abundance 54

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of roadway access points and shipping lanes for freight, the State of Indiana is perfectly suited for the logistical needs of almost any company.

some of Indiana’s major road improvement projects slated for completion in 2013: • $7.8 million slide correction along SR 56 near Seymour by spring • $2.3 million HMA overlay from US 41 to I-164 near Vincennes by spring

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WORKERS COMP

A little thing that leads to success By Sean Smith, Business Development Manager, Certified Safety

to attitude: Attitude, good or bad is our choice. I can allow circumstance ir Winston Churchill, the famed and often quoted British to rule my emotions and my attitude or I can determine to master Prime Minster, is noted for leading the United Kingdom and my emotions, remain positive and improve my circumstances. giving “hope to a hopeless nation during its darkest days Attitude, whether good or bad, is infectious. If you come during World War II.” He also was a noted artist, a historian and to work with a positive attitude then no matter how bad my day an accomplished writer who may have begun, your positive was awarded the Nobel Prize in attitude will lift me up. The attitude of others is something we can impact. Literature in 1953. The attitude of others People need meaning in their life and people need One of my many favorite is something we can impact. to be recognized for their efforts. Churchill quotes is, “Attitude People need meaning in their is a little thing that makes a big life and people need to be difference.” recognized for their efforts. No I agree with Mr. Churchill that attitude makes a big difference matter how small someone’s role may seem in the work place but as I go about my personal life and meet with other business they are in that role because it is needed. No doubt their attitude leaders, I’ve come to realize that attitude is not a small thing at and performance will improve when they become aware of their all. Churchill obviously realized that as well. If you think about impact and importance to the team. it, I’m sure you’ll agree with my following observations related Their attitude and performance will equally decline if they

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are treated as if their role is unimportant and they are expendable. Attitude can help drive success or failure. I can’t think of one appreciable success in my life where I, or my team, did not carry positive attitudes. Can you? Although the above are some of my personal thoughts about attitude and all it can do, every company has its own attitude as well—and it starts at the top. When the owners, supervisors and other managerial personnel are generally positive in their outlook, it filters down and inspires everyone along the line. Well, I shouldn’t stop there. I should add that when a positive attitude is generated at the top and filters to everyone down the line, it magically works its way back up the line and gives further encouragement to those at the top of the hierarchy. The famed super salesman, Zig Ziglar had this to say about attitude, “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” Attitude is especially important when it comes to safety. There have been many studies on how attitude affects safety behavior. Dr. Dianne R. Stober, Ph.D. and her colleagues at C-Cubed (Cognitive Change Concepts) go into great detail in their studies of how to get humans to change behavior and she says, in part, “People do not expend energy without sufficient motivation to do so.” It is important to help workers change their thought pattern from “having to be safe” to “wanting to be safe.” Wanting to be safe is an attitude…it’s “just a little thing that makes a big difference.” For more information call toll free 800-994-2339 or sales@certifiedsafety.net.

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YOUR WELL-BEING

Breathe in the FACTS How Air quality is determined

Indiana University Northwest published a report that stated, “Indiana’s air has become significantly cleaner in the last 10 years. Stricter standards and better compliance by hen one conducts research industry have reduced smog and dust online to try and learn which levels and improved visibility. Indiana’s states are ranked the worst in air meets health standards set by the terms of air quality, a myriad of results U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are readily accessible. It is difficult (EPA) for sulfur dioxide, to discern which “Indiana’s air has become significantly cleaner in the last 10 carbon monoxide, lead, of these sources years. Stricter standards and better compliance by industry have dust and soot across the comprises the reduced smog and dust levels and improved visibility.” state. However, in some “official” government - Indiana University Northwest parts of the state, ozone reports and which levels still exceed federal were completed standards. Levels of through independent studies – further Council listed Indiana as number four toxic chemicals, for which there are no confusion is added by the varying on its “Toxic 20” list, coming in behind federal standards, also are of concern in means by which this information is Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania. The Indiana.” obtained. NRDC uses the EPA’s Toxic Release With specific regard to Indiana, Inventory (TRI), a national database So what is the Official Word? how can one determine the state’s With so many differing opinions of toxic emissions self-reported by true pollution ranking compared to the industrial sources including emissions so readily available, how is anyone other 49 states, and is Indiana showing of mercury, hydrochloric acid, and supposed to determine which study is any improvement? the official statement with regard to how other hazardous metals. CNBC published a report in Indiana’s air quality is determined? The Varying Results at a Glance September that listed Indiana as the Indiana Department of Environmental The American Lung Association’s sixth most polluted state in the US, Management (IDEM) aims to do just that State of the Air Report listed the citing two coal plants that produce such – provide a consistently understandable South Bend-Elkhart-Mishawaka areas a high volume of greenhouse emissions method for understanding Indiana’s air of Indiana as #25 on the list of most that they are ranked the 5th and 10th quality measurements. polluted cities in the country for shortIn a recent letter, Tom Easterly, worst single polluters in the country.

By Nick Dmitrovich with a contribution from Tom Easterly, Commissioner with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management

term particle pollution. The Indianapolis-AndersonColumbus area was #14 for year-round particle pollution; the areas of Indiana near Louisville were #9 in Year-Round particle pollution and the areas of Indiana near Cincinnati were #8 in YearRound particle pollution. The Natural Resources Defense

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Commissioner with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, explained the criteria for obtaining and understanding the data. He stated in his letter the following: Here are the facts: • U.S. EPA has established health-based air quality standards for six air pollutants (particulate matter, ozone, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and lead). • At the end of 2009, for the first time since air quality standards were established in the mid 1970s, all of Indiana’s air met all of these health-based air quality standards. • America’s Health Rankings Annual Report used data from 2009-2011 to develop their air quality rankings. During this same period, Indiana was one of only 19 states to meet the U.S. EPA established health-based standards for ozone and particulate matter (PM2.5). Therefore, the America’s Health Rankings report placed 31 states not meeting the federal standards ahead of Indiana, who did. • Every state, including Indiana, uses federally-approved air quality monitoring to determine if it is protecting its citizens by meeting the health-based air quality standards. • He also commented on how much of the available information on each state’s air quality found online is not based on comparable measured data like the facts gathered through the IDEM and the EPA. Is Indiana’s Air Improving? Still though, once one has gotten their hands on some consistent and recognized data, the question still remains: Is Indiana showing any improvement? Easterly said, “As Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, I am proud of the progress Indiana has made in cleaning up our air while continuing to be the most manufacturing-intensive state in the U.S.” “We expect U.S. EPA to continue tightening air quality standards, so Indiana, like all other states, must continue to improve its air quality. I am committed to continuing to ensure that all Hoosiers continue to have safe air to breathe.” The IDEM published a study in 2012 that reported Indiana’s air pollution levels dropped significantly from the years 1980 to 2009. The report stated that over those years carbon monoxide levels dropped 69 percent, nitrogen dioxide dropped 92 percent, particulate matter and fine particles dropped 58 percent, sulfur dioxide dropped 91 percent and volatile organic compounds (which are precursors for ozone) dropped 58 percent. Subsequently according to America’s Health Rankings, a United Health Foundation, Indiana’s air pollution levels have crept slowly downward since 2002, which in itself is already a marked improvement over the air pollution levels in 1970 when the EPA first began creating federal regulations to control air pollution.

EVENT

BEYOND SAFETY EXPO Come learn from the industries BEST Safety experts, CEUs available. Discuss topics related to safety and network.

VENUE

DATE & TIME

Radisson Feb. 19-20, Star Plaza 2013 Merrillville, IN

beyondsafetyexpo.com MIDWEST SMOKEOUT Watch for the greatest annual cigar show in the region coming spring 2013! Vendors from throughout the country and beyond will bring their best for the event of the year!

Horseshoe April 25, Casino 2013 Hammond, 5:00–10:00 IN P.M

midwestsmokeout.com Avalon CAF/NWIBRT AWARDS BANQUET Manor Join this celebration of the best and Merrillville, safest construction/maintenance projects and companies in the region! IN This must-see event is for any business leader! INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF NWI AWARDS The women of NWI are on the rise, and it is time to recognize the women who are working to empower and influence their communities!

Avalon Manor

May 16, 2013 5:30–9:00 P.M.

May 23, 2013

Merrillville, 5:00–8:00 IN P.M.

nwiwomen.com NWIBRT GOLF OUTING Bigger and better than ever in 2013! Last year’s event broke White Hawk’s record for attendees at an event! This year will be even better!

White Hawk Country Club

July 22, 2013

Crown Point, IN

nwibrt.org/golf THE BIG SCHMOOZE Shake hands, exchange cards, & SCHMOOZE at this networkingfocused fundraising kick-off for the Lake Area United Way & United Way of Porter County.

Avalon Manor

September 19, 2013

Merrillville, 5:00–8:00 IN P.M.

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LIEFLONG LEARNING

Why Should Employers Care About Continuing Education? likely to stick with a company when the employer is funding or helping to fund their continuing education. A large emany employers ask themselves ployer’s fear is that retraining employees the questions; why should I inis just preparing them to take a higher payvest in continuing education for ing job elsewhere. But that is not the case. my employees? Why not just hire someone In 2005 a study was released revealing that already knows the material? When orthat when examining a larger longitudinal ganizations take an inventory of the cost/ worker survey, the researchers found that benefit relationship between investing in employees who received comcontinuing education and not pany training had a job sepainvesting, it becomes clear “Employees greatly value education benefits. They ration rate that is 8 percent that the benefits far outweigh know that tuition reimbursement and specialized training courses enhance their professional prospects and make lower than individuals with the costs. no such training,” DeVries’s Continuing education is a them more marketable.” article stated. Increased job sound investment because it David Hakala, HRworld satisfaction and in turn cusproduces employees with an increased ability to take advantage of new ketable, and recruiters will be taking an tomer satisfaction are also byproducts of developments in the workplace, a higher interest in them, the statistics show that continuing education among employees. Spherion Atlantic Enterprises LLC., retention rate among employees, reduced employees who receive education benabsenteeism and increased productivity efits with their employers tend to actually a staffing and employment-services firm, and quality of work, according to an ar- become more loyal to the company than conducted a study that found 61 percent of employees who received training or ticle entitled “Closing Americas Job Gap,” previously thought. “Naturally, good employees are more continued education said they were very co-authored by Henry DeVries, Assistant By Nick Dmitrovich

Dean of External Affairs at the University of California San Diego Extension. The first thought that comes into a lot of business owner’s minds when they think about continued education is the fear that they may invest in an individual who may leave the company in the future to work elsewhere. While it is true that education makes the employee more mar-

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ily true. In today’s modern technological world it is possible for student-employees to attend classes anywhere in the world through there computers. Webinars (web seminars), webcasts and online classes are a global phenomenon and have only gained popularity since their invention. Now a student will not have to incur the costs of commuting to a traditional brick-and-mortar school to get their education, they can simply log on to a professor’s webinar from anywhere in the world and actively participate with the instructor throughout the learning experience.

Also, generally, the costs of higher learning are less in the digital world, making them more affordable for many companies. In general, continued education is a sound investment that employers and private business owners should take into consideration. The value of the improvements that could be made to the workforce exceeds the cost of tuition or accommodations for higher learning and fosters a sense of loyalty among those employees who benefit from their augmented skill sets.

Information Inform that matters BCRC is very passionate about what we do. Our services promote the well-being and safety of employees in the workplace. Empowering our members with information is just one way BCRC does this. It is our purpose to provide a vehicle to help establish and maintain a workplace free of the destructive effects caused by the use of drugs and alcohol. If you require more information or would like to speak with us directly, please feel free to contact BCRC at anytime.

6050 Southport • Suite B Portage, IN 46368

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likely to remain with their current employer for the next five years or more. Turning for a moment to the human aspect of continuing education in the workforce, employees often feel a greater sense of appreciation when offered the opportunity to better their lives by learning new skills. David Hakala, an author with HRworld writes, “Employees greatly value education benefits. They know that tuition reimbursement and specialized training courses enhance their professional prospects and make them more marketable. Education benefits also show that a company truly values its employees and their future.” As technology continues to develop, and new techniques are implemented to boost efficiency, it’s important to have employees that can adapt to the changes. Continuing education offers employees the chance to grow as individuals along with their industry. Skills will need to grow, be updated and modernized to fit the requirements of the organization. If a company wants to thrive, then it cannot simply rely on the initial skills its employees were hired with. DeVries and his co-authors wrote, “A 2003 study from The Aspen Institute found studies in its literature review that correlated employee training with reduced production error rates. A more recent study found that 92 percent of firms participating in a Massachusetts training program in 2008 reported increases in quality and 91 percent reported increased productivity.” This increase in productivity will eventually offset the costs of continued education for employees. Improvements to employee productivity can be measured through situations where the employee spends less time on a particular task, has an increased output of products or services, shows time saved for managers and supervisors and demonstrates an improved capacity to use new technology. Some employers feel that accommodating the class schedule for their employee enrolled in a program will be difficult to schedule and may lead to reduced productivity while the individual is taking classes. However this is not always necessar-

877-988-5400 info@bcrcnet.com

MARKETING

Your networking strategy By Liza Hilliard

mployers seeking to generate new business frequently invest in networking events for their employees to attend. Much like any investment a business owner makes, the question always remains, what is the return on investment? More than likely, a company does not have an established measurable system in place to gauge these networking dollars, which results in difficulty calculating the precise dollar amount on return. Creating and implementing a networking strategy for employees is an effective way to ensure invested dollars are being well spent. There are several questions to ask and strategies to instrument in order to prepare each employee for the best results. What is the attendee audience? Identifying and targeting specific markets for each portion of your business

is crucial for success. Helping staff identify which clients are in attendance at a particular event allows for a more precise and direct approach to enticing the new customer. The staff is then prepared to give a brief introduction to grab the attention of the potential customer by providing relevant information. What do you know about the customer? Nothing looks worse when trying to generate new business than a sales associate that is uninformed about a potential client’s services and industries served. Educating staff members creates a more engaged customer, as well as brings a level of comfort to the sales associate. They are prepared to answer the “What do you know about our business?” question, look reliable and trustworthy that they do have the customer’s best interest at heart. Get Personal Has the prospective client recently

won any awards, been awarded large projects, or had a change in staff? Everyone appreciates positive recognition when it is well deserved – and potential customers are no exception. Getting personal with a client will certainly boost the professional rapport, and could potentially lead to a stronger sense of customer loyalty down the road. Zone in on key phrases used While briefly exchanging information on each other, a representative should focus in on key words used by the client. For example, if they say “We are seeking to reach the Power Shakers in Indiana,” using these key terms in a follow up will create a sense of understanding, as well as draw the connection back to your specific company and conversation. Less is always more Train staff on how to ask the right questions to get the client talking. Questions that could be asked are www.buildingindiananews.com

• • •

How long have you been in business? What sets you apart from you competition? How do you solicit new business?

Questions that allow customers to elaborate on their company and services are a way of showing genuine interest in what they do for their own customers. Sit away from fellow co-workers, and friends As easy as it is to sit with people you know, sitting away from acquaintances will allow employees to expand their area of networking coverage. The purpose of events is to make new contacts and sitting with old friends or co-workers can hinder the new business development results. Furthermore, having your staff spread out over the networking area will ensure that each visiting potential customer will be greeted by one of your team members regardless of where they are situated in the room.

business generating, but is overlooked. Managing a running spreadsheet of all the networking events, and associations that are participated in, can be revisited quarterly or annually to discuss which employees have generated business, small or large, as a result of attending these events. Tracking associations will become a tool for gauging which events have been wise investments, and which should be omitted until the next review. During review, rearranging staff members to attend different events may create a new

sense of curiosity about the business, and specific representatives may be better suited to handle a certain demographic or specialty. By strategizing networking events, employees will feel prepared and the employer will feel confident their staff members are representing the company in a positive light, and are prepared to handle new business. A brief networking strategy training can equip the staff with the ability to make the most of events, resulting in the highest return on investment.

Is your staff branded? If staff is not required to wear a specific uniform with a company logo, how is the company recognized? Wearing a name badge with a company logo is a great way to identify a brand, and adds a professional touch to the outfit. Handwritten name tags provided at an event are an easy save, but the professional name badge adds a nice touch to the reputation of your company, and allows all in attendance to become familiar with a company logo. Small details are important. What type of personalized follow-up can you do? The best way to have a contact remember you is follow up with them on a personal level. If a prospective client mentions they are looking to go on vacation in the next month, a personalized follow up mailer with a small sunscreen is a stand-out way to make an impression. Calculating an exact return on investment for networking dollars is a difficult task. Asking customers ‘how did you hear about us?’ is a key role in determining the source of the new www.buildingindiananews.com

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Indiana’s new governor makes Economic development

a PRIORITY

By Nick Dmitrovich

proposals beyond the revenue scale that it takes in. “The Pence administration stands firmly on the principle that the State should never spend a single dollar more than it collects. This is important for two reasons. First, maintaining fiscal health in Indiana translates into a stable environment for job creation and business attraction. Second, the budget meets present needs head-on without leaving

them with debt or increased taxes – or both – in the future. In Indiana we consider that a kind of moral failure. An honestly balanced budget is an investment in the future of tomorrow’s leaders,” he said.

ndiana Office of Management and Budget Director Chris Atkins announced on Tuesday, January 15th to the Indiana Budget Committee that Governor Mike Pence’s economic Improving Aspects of development plan for 2013 will center Transportation and Education around improving economic growth The second part of the Governor’s through new investments in education plan got into the specifics about how and transportation. In his his administration will “The Pence administration stands firmly on the principle that budget plan, Governor Pence be fostering economic the State should never spend a single dollar more than it said, “Our goal with the development throughout the collects.” budget is to ensure that job state. The first priority listed Mike Pence, Indiana State Governor creators have more freedom, was making high-demand, that innovators face fewer high-wage jobs a priority barriers, and that our workers keep more the tab to future generations,” Pence said. through things like transportation and of their earnings and have access to new He also commented on how many infrastructure improvements and new opportunities to adapt their skills to the politicians will say that they are being more organizations to work with universities to exciting demands of America’s ever- fiscally responsible for future generations create new careers. “By living within our changing economy.” while never really completing the task. means, we will generate excess reserves In the first section of his plan, “It is not unusual for public leaders to of nearly $347 million over two years that the Governor stated clearly that his wax eloquently about meeting the needs should be reinvested in Indiana’s roads, administration will not make spending of children and the young, only to leave bridges and infrastructure, in support of 64

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our growing transportation and logistics industries,” the Governor said. He also provided details about his plan to spend $3 million over the next two years to create the Indiana Applied Research Enterprise – an organization that will partner with Indiana’s Life Sciences industry and universities to create the entrepreneurial growth that will produce high-paying jobs. He noted that many of these jobs will not require a college degree. The other top priority that the economic development plan outlined placed a high priority on improving education and boosting the quality of the adult workforce. A one percent increase in funding is proposed for public, kindergarten through 12th grade, schools over each of the next two years, with the funding in the second year being performance based. “We also increase teacher excellence grants by $6 million in order to increase pay for our highperforming teachers,” Pence said. The new budget also commits $6 million over two years to create new organizations called Indiana Works Councils. These Councils will develop a curriculum that is regionally based and job-demand-driven to bring higher paying careers to more people in Indiana. So what does this mean for business in Indiana? The proposed changes in funding for transportation and infrastructure will allow for new construction to take place over the coming years, so companies in the business of transportation, shipping or logistics will have new opportunities to take advantage of – literally, new avenues to pursue. Subsequently the proposed changes to education will create a more comprehensive, regionally based system of training future employees. Why train kids to be software engineers in a rural community? It would be likely that they would only have to move elsewhere upon graduation, potentially to another state. Instead schools will be focusing on the needs of the regional community www.buildingindiananews.com

and educating their students in a way that prepares them to join the workforce immediately, without having to consider moving very far away beforehand. Thus, jobs that were highly sought after, but beyond reach for many individuals will ultimately become attainable. Companies wishing to expand or open a facility in a new area would only have to open their doors to representatives from the Indiana Applied Research Enterprise and negotiate the possibility of allowing various career-based kinds of practical

skills to be shared with the students. Then the company would have a wider base of eligible applicants available locally to fill their open positions. “This budget is an expression of the principle that fiscal responsibility is directly related to creating an environment amenable to job growth, new investment, and new opportunity for Hoosier workers and families,” Pence said. In a few weeks, in mid-February, the report is expected to be delivered in the House Ways and Means Committee.

Brag.

Boast. Be a show-off. Do customers know why you’re the best at what you do? Toot your own horn to Indiana’s largest B2B magazine. Place your ad in Building Indiana. Contact Liza Hilliard at 219.226.0300 or LHilliard@thinkdiversified.com. She can help with your swagger.

The Last Word Taking Control in 2013 Sorting relevant data from irrelvant data to make meaningful financial decisions. Dr. Micah Pollak, Indiana University Northwest Assistant Professor of Economics.

hile keeping track of numerous Indiana economy and the direction it is employment. Employment in this sector economic factors is standard going. has almost doubled since 1992 from about operating procedure for a The Index is composed of four 25,000 to over 40,000 employees. business planner, civic leader, or financial individual components. Three are based One of the driving factors for lender, recent economic woes have on national data that have particular developing the Northwest Indiana sparked interest in the general public significance for Northwest Indiana’s Economic Index is that there are very few to, at the very least, pay attention to economy; steel production, retail sales quantitative measures of the economy of economic comings and goings. More and and average manufacturing hours worked. Northwest Indiana. more aspects of society are now using The fourth variable is employment in If a company is considering relocating available economic data in their everyday the Gary-metro area (The Gary-metro to or expanding in Northwest Indiana and lives, whether it’s negotiating a salary, or consists of Lake, Porter, Newton and asks the question: “How is the region’s which bank to apply for a small business Jasper counties). economy doing?” until now it was difficult loan. Two components: The Index and to give a concrete answer. This overall interest in the desire for forecast are updated each month as new For example, in October the economic data had an incredible unemployment rate in the state side effect. Invariably, one can The power of the index is that at any time anyone in of Indiana was 7.4%. In Southwest be left in a situation where too the world can log on to www.nwiindex.com and see Indiana (Evansville-metro area) much information is available, the latest monthly condition of the Northwest Indiana unemployment was as low as 6.5% and there are resources needed economy and the direction it is going. while in Northwest Indiana (Garyto transform the data into metro area) unemployment was something. over 8%. This type of dramatic With the amount of data available for data is released. The second part of the difference between Northwest Indiana analysis and planning, the first step should Northwest Indiana Index is the Leading and other regions in the state suggests be recognizing what is relevant is what is Indicator which acts as a forecast of the that we need some way of measuring the not. For business owners the condition of six-month growth rate for Northwest economy in the Northwest Indiana region the economy influences sales, work force, Indiana. specifically, and this is the purpose of the and operating costs. The following recession hit the region Index. In the face of all of the constantly especially hard and the Index fell to about In short, the effect the Index and more shifting variables, it can be difficult to 50. The main component of the Index available information and an increased gauge the condition of the economy. holding back the recovery is employment. level of interest from the general public The NWI Index provides a straight While the other components have has led to more and more people using forward way to gauge how the economy returned to or surpassed their 2007 economic data in their everyday lives. is doing, and how it is likely to change in levels, employment remains at about For individuals to take control of their the future. The power of the Index is that 20,000 jobs fewer than in 2008. Within finances in 2013, processing of relevant at any time anyone in the world can log on employment, most of these losses have from irrelevant data will be essential to http://www.nwiindex.com and see the been in the manufacturing sector. One in making the right decisions for both latest monthly condition of the Northwest bright spot however is in Health Services businesses and private citizens alike. The opinions expressed in this article are the views of the authors. We welcome your response. If you are interested in writing an opinion piece, send an e-mail to editor@buildingindiananews.com.

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