STRATEGY 1: Develop specialized workforce development programs across the region.

Objective Priority Actions

A. Leverage the regional technology and training centers like the Buchta Technology Center to serve as regional business incubators and workforce training centers.

1. Create a Center for Entrepreneurship & Experiential Learning where startups and others can prototype their ideas that require equipment, and supplies and people can experiment.

2. Create a renewable energy technician workforce training program to assist in providing qualified employees to help install and maintain renewable energy technologies.

3. Work with local downtowns and industrial/business parks to locate businesses who have outgrown regional technology and training centers so they stay within the region.

1. Examine current course offerings and gaps amongst the community and technical colleges and compare them with the needs of employers.

2. Determine training gaps based on the needs from employers.

B. Foster deeper relationships with local technical colleges and universities to expand non-degree programs (e.g., certifications and credentials) that meet the needs of current and future regional employers.

3. Organize regional cluster networks to promote collaborative workforce development and training solutions.

4. Partner with local colleges such as Ivy Tech Community College, Vincennes University Jasper, and Oakland City University to bring in students to assist teachers and expand services at a lower cost.

5. Develop funding sources that close the travel expense gap to bring qualified teachers from technical colleges and universities that will offer quality educational opportunities to students and incumbent workers.