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The event celebrated employers and organizations creating inclusive workplace practices, while raising funds to support opportunities that connect talent with good jobs across Marion County.

INDIANAPOLIS — On Thursday, Mayor Joe Hogsett, EmployIndy, the Office of Minority and Women Business Development, community leaders, and over 70 local employers gathered at the 25th Annual Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards to recognize employers who are leading the way in creating inclusive and supportive workplaces. This year’s event took place at the Grand Hall in Union Station at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, with over 450 in attendance.    

This event celebrates the work of supporting accessible pathways to quality careers for Indianapolis residents, with proceeds benefiting EmployIndy programs that support job-readiness training, soft-skill development, postsecondary persistence, work-based learning, and access to quality employment.   

“EmployIndy is honored to join the City of Indianapolis in recognizing organizations that are leading by example in creating equitable access to career opportunities,” said Ken Clark, president & CEO of EmployIndy. “When employers and community partners invest in people and their potential and remove barriers so everyone can benefit, we create a workforce that is prepared to thrive and meet the needs of our region and its people.” 

As the event celebrated its 25-year history spanning three mayoral administrations, former mayors Bart Peterson and Greg Ballard joined Mayor Joe Hogsett at the podium to reflect on why the celebration was created and how Indianapolis has remained committed to expanding opportunity and accessibility, recognizing talent, and ensuring every resident can contribute to the community’s success. 

In total, five awards were given at this year’s event with unique focuses including celebrating the quality of services delivered by community-based organizations, excelling in youth employment, and diversity in workforce and leadership.  

This year’s award winners are:   

  • The Community-Based Organization Workforce Impact Award was awarded to Fathers and Families Center, for their approach that goes beyond employment, providing wraparound support that includes job and skilled-trades training, case management, and mental health and substance use counseling.  
  • The Dr. Polter Excellence in Youth Employment Award was awarded to EM Company, Inc for their belief in investing in young adults as the future of their company, providing opportunities for formal training, mentorship, coaching, and career counseling to help them grow in their chosen fields. 
  • The Diversity in Workforce Award was awarded to Morning Light for their intentional work to remove barriers that can prevent residents, particularly those from underrepresented communities, from entering careers in healthcare. 
  • The Diversity in Leadership Award was awarded to Community Research and Resource Center for making diversity foundational to its mission, with Black and women leaders at the helm and a commitment to ensuring historically underserved communities have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. 
  • Sam H. Jones ‘Best of the Best’ was awarded to Black Onyx Management for their investment in diverse communities through access to capital, ongoing support for Black entrepreneurs, and philanthropy that strengthens Black-led organizations across Indianapolis. 

Individuals who are interested in supporting opportunities that connect talent with good jobs across Marion County through EmployIndy can learn more and donate online. 

Donate Today

For many college students, earning a degree is only one part of preparing for a successful career. Navigating the college experience, building professional networks, gaining relevant work experience and understanding how to transition from the classroom to the workforce can be challenging, particularly for first-generation students and those balancing competing responsibilities. 

To help students build the skills, connections and confidence needed to succeed, EmployIndy and Chief Deputy Mayor Chris Bailey welcomed over 55 Indy Achieves scholars from Indiana University Indianapolis to the 2026 Indy Achieves Leadership Summit at the Indianapolis Public Library’s Central Library. 

Designed as a day of professional development and career exploration, the summit brought together students, employers, community leaders and workforce partners to support scholars as they prepare for internships, careers and long-term success. Participants connected with employers during an internship fair, attended workshops focused on resume writing, financial literacy and professional skills development, and heard from local entrepreneurs and civic leaders during a panel discussion hosted by IndyHub. 

A highlight of the event was a visit from Chief Deputy Mayor Chris Bailey, who spoke with students about Indianapolis’ growing job market and the city’s commitment to expanding career opportunities and increasing earning potential for young professionals. 

“Events like the leadership summit demonstrate what makes Indy Achieves so impactful,” said Esther Woodson, senior director of Indy Achieves at EmployIndy. “Students need more than financial support to reach their goals. Through one-on-one coaching, career guidance and meaningful connections with employers, we’re helping scholars build confidence, navigate challenges and see a clear pathway from college to a rewarding career in Indianapolis.” 

Thank you to IU Indianapolis Foundation and Republic Services/Blue Polymers for your support and for making this opportunity possible.

The summit reflects the broader mission of Indy Achieves, which was launched by Mayor Hogsett in 2018 and is led by EmployIndy. The initiative works to close Indianapolis’ skills gap by expanding access to postsecondary education, eliminating equity gaps and ensuring students have the support and resources needed to earn and complete high-quality credentials.  

Student success coaching remains a cornerstone of the program’s impact. Research has shown the coaching model can increase postsecondary retention rates by as much as 13% compared with peers, helping students persist through challenges and stay on track to graduation. Last year, 142 Indy Achieves scholars graduated from IU Indianapolis with coaching and support from the program. 

Beyond helping individual students succeed, Indy Achieves strengthens Indianapolis’ talent pipeline and economy. Each year, the initiative generates an estimated annual economic impact of more than $11.8 million through successful postsecondary completion, underscoring the value of investing in student success and workforce readiness. 

By connecting scholars with coaching, career development resources and employer relationships, the 2026 Leadership Summit reinforced Indy Achieves’ commitment to helping more Indianapolis students achieve their educational goals and launch successful careers. 

Get connected to Indy Achieves

When Plastic Recycling Inc. began experiencing high employee turnover, company leaders realized they needed to take a deeper look at how they attracted, developed, and sustained their workforce. 

For Chad Smith, chief personnel officer at Plastic Recycling Inc., the goal wasn’t simply to fill open positions. He wanted to understand where the company’s employees came from, identify new sources of talent, and build a stronger workforce for the future.“I made it my goal to understand what our workforce was made out of and where we were getting our talent from,” said Smith. “EmployIndy was the place to go to help me work my way through that process.” 

Through EmployIndy’s Talent Bound initiative, Plastic Recycling Inc. discovered that workforce development begins long before someone applies for a job. By investing in career awareness and industry exposure at an early age, the company found a new way to help shape its future workforce while strengthening connections to the community. 

Talent Bound helps employers build tomorrow’s workforce by connecting them with schools to deliver meaningful career-connected learning experiences. Students gain exposure to careers, build workplace awareness, and begin connecting classroom learning to future opportunities. Employers, in turn, increase awareness of their industry, strengthen relationships with local schools, and help inspire the next generation of talent.

One of those opportunities came when Talent Bound connected Plastic Recycling Inc. with a teacher at William McKinley Elementary School 39. The partnership resulted in a hands-on industry tour that introduced 58 students—along with teachers and chaperones—to the company’s operations. 

During the visit, students toured the facility, learned about careers in recycling and manufacturing, participated in hands-on problem-solving activities, and gained firsthand exposure to how businesses operate. For many students, it was their first opportunity to see a manufacturing workplace up close. The experience helped students connect classroom learning to real-world applications while introducing them to career opportunities they may not have previously considered. 

For employers like Plastic Recycling Inc., work-based learning is an investment in future talent. It builds awareness of careers and industries, strengthens relationships with schools, and gives employers an opportunity to influence how young people understand work long before they’re making career decisions.

As Indiana’s workforce continues to evolve, employers are finding that recruiting alone isn’t enough. Building tomorrow’s workforce starts long before someone submits an application. Through work-based learning, employers can introduce students to careers, develop early interest in their industries, and help prepare future employees with the skills and experiences workplaces value.

“The earlier students can engage with employers and explore career possibilities, the better prepared they are to navigate their futures,” said Matt Simpson, senior manager of K-12 partnership success at EmployIndy. “Work-based learning transforms career awareness into career readiness by providing hands-on experiences that bring learning to life.”

Talent Bound is one way EmployIndy is helping connect education and industry across Marion County. During program year 2024-25, EmployIndy facilitated 38,486 career-connected learning opportunities through career exploration, career engagement, and work-based learning experiences.

For Plastic Recycling Inc., the partnership demonstrated that workforce development begins long before hiring or even recruiting. By opening its doors to students, the company raised awareness of its industry, strengthened community connections and contributed to a stronger local workforce ecosystem.

“Our partnership with EmployIndy is built on mutual trust, shared purpose and a commitment to helping each other succeed,” said Smith. “They understand the workforce development landscape in Indianapolis, and they’re a true connector who helps make ideas come to life.”

As EmployIndy continues connecting classrooms and careers through Talent Bound, employers like Plastic Recycling Inc. are helping build a workforce that is more informed, better prepared, and more connected to the needs of Marion County’s employers.

Ready to strengthen your future workforce?

Connect with Our Business Partnerships Team

EmployIndy is proud to announce the addition of four new community-based organizations to the YES Indy network, strengthening our ability to connect more young adults across Marion County to career training, education, and employment opportunities. 

The newest YES Indy service providers are: 

  • Brightwood Community Center 
  • Community Action of Greater Indianapolis (CAGI) 
  • Community Research and Resource Center (CRRC) 
  • Nehemiah Project CDC 

These organizations join a growing network of community partners dedicated to helping young people overcome barriers, build skills, and access meaningful career pathways. YES Indy, one of EmployIndy’s youth workforce development initiatives, connects young adults ages 18 to 24 with opportunities that align with high-demand industries while providing the support needed to achieve long-term success. 

Through YES Indy, participants gain access to adult basic education, job readiness training, and supportive services tailored to their individual needs. While each career pathway offers a unique experience, every participant receives comprehensive guidance designed to prepare them for educational advancement, credential attainment, and sustainable employment. 

“Community-based organizations are at the heart of our work with young people,” said Dionne Smith, vice president of community career services at EmployIndy. “They build trust, understand the unique needs of the neighborhoods they serve, and provide the wraparound support that helps participants stay engaged and reach their goals. By expanding our network of partners, we’re able to connect more young adults to opportunities that can transform their futures.” 

A key component of YES Indy is its earn-and-learn model, which allows participants to gain hands-on work experience, develop career-ready skills, and earn income at the same time. This approach is especially impactful for young adults facing barriers to employment or education, providing immediate support while creating pathways to long-term economic mobility. 

Community partnerships play a critical role in delivering these outcomes. Organizations like Brightwood Community Center, CAGI, CRRC, and Nehemiah Project CDC help EmployIndy meet young people where they are, offering accessible services, and individualized support that encourage persistence and success. 

“Community Research and Resource Center is excited to partner with EmployIndy as this support strengthens our ability to connect young people,” said Belinda Drake, executive director at Community Research and Resource Center. “While our focus is on serving TLGBQ+ communities, we welcome and support all young people who are seeking pathways to employment, education, and long-term success. Through our VISION: Workforce Development & Economic Mobility program, we are continuing to advance our mission by meeting young people where they are, helping them identify their goals, and walking alongside them as they build a stronger future.” 

The impact of YES Indy continues to grow. In 2025, 681 young people participated in YES Indy services. More than half transitioned into education, credential training, or career pathways, generating an estimated $17.1 million in community impact. 

To learn more about YES Indy and the communities our community-based organizations serve, visit yesindy317.org. 

Find a YES Indy provider near you

The following highlights from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development’s May 2026 Labor Market Review provide insight into labor market conditions affecting Marion County (Economic Growth Region 12) and surrounding counties, including Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Madison, Morgan and Shelby counties (Economic Growth Region 5). This data can help strengthen planning, improve service delivery and deepen alignment between training programs and employer needs. 

KEY FINDINGS

1. Unemployment increased slightly across Central Indiana

Economic Growth Region 5 posted a 3.0% unemployment rate in May 2026, up from 2.5% in April. Marion County reported a 3.3% unemployment rate, matching Madison County for the highest unemployment rate among counties in the region.

2. Talent demand remains concentrated in key industries 

The report shows health care, transportation and logistics, and retail and sales occupations continue to generate significant hiring activity across Central Indiana. 

Registered nurses were the most frequently listed occupation. Truck drivers, customer service representatives, maintenance workers and material movers also ranked among the top job openings.

3. Indiana continues to outperform the nation on unemployment

Indiana’s unemployment rate stood at 3.3%, below the U.S. rate of 4.3%. 

Among neighboring states, Illinois and Michigan each reported unemployment rates of 5.1%. Ohio reported 3.7%, while Kentucky reported 4.5%.

4. Regional labor force participation remains strong 

Economic Growth Region 5 had a labor force of more than 1.14 million workers, with approximately 1.11 million employed. 

While unemployment increased month over month, the region continues to maintain a large and active workforce. 

Read the full DWD report
What this means for Indianapolis employers 

Central Indiana’s labor market remains competitive despite a modest increase in unemployment. While more workers may be available than earlier this year, demand continues to be concentrated in key industries, including health care, transportation and logistics, retail, sales and customer service. 

Occupations such as registered nurses, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers, maintenance workers and customer service representatives remain among the region’s most frequently advertised jobs. Employers can strengthen talent pipelines through work-based learning, upskilling initiatives and partnerships with workforce organizations that help connect qualified candidates to high-demand roles. 

What this means for workforce organizations 

The report highlights an opportunity to align talent development efforts with employer demand. Health care, logistics, skilled trades, sales and maintenance occupations continue to generate substantial hiring activity, and several of these occupations also appear among the jobs most frequently sought by applicants. 

This alignment suggests opportunities to accelerate connections between job seekers and employers through targeted training, credential attainment and career navigation services. Workforce organizations can maximize their impact by focusing resources on industries with sustained hiring demand and clear pathways to quality careers. 

EmployIndy’s perspective 

As Marion County’s workforce development board, EmployIndy views this report as evidence of a resilient labor market, even as unemployment trends upward slightly. Indiana continues to outperform the nation on unemployment, and the Indianapolis region maintains a labor force of more than 1.14 million workers. 

At the same time, employers continue to seek talent in critical sectors that drive the regional economy. By leveraging labor market data, strengthening employer partnerships and investing in sector-based workforce strategies, Central Indiana can continue building a talent pipeline that meets business needs while expanding access to economic mobility for residents. 

Learn about our resources for employers

On Wednesday, June 17, EmployIndy celebrated 28 young adults who successfully completed career training through YES Indy, the organization’s initiative connecting Marion County youth to education, training and employment pathways. 

The event recognized participants across three distinct career tracks: certified clinical medical assistant, construction and advanced manufacturing. While each pathway offers a unique experience, all participants received access to adult basic education, job readiness training and support services designed to remove barriers and prepare them for long-term success. 

Through YES Indy, EmployIndy continues to meet young people where they are, connecting them to training opportunities that align with in-demand industries and offering a clear path forward. 

Building career pathways through hands-on training 

Each training cohort provided participants with meaningful, hands-on experiences tailored to their chosen field. 

Certified clinical medical assistant training 

Participants pursuing careers in health care gained real-world exposure to clinical environments through lab work and clinical experiences, along with dedicated lab hours to build and strengthen technical skills. 

Construction training 

Participants in the construction pathway focused on building a strong educational and credential foundation, earning their high school equivalency alongside industry-recognized certifications, including NCCER and CPR and first aid. 

Advanced manufacturing training 

Those in advanced manufacturing developed both technical and leadership skills, earning the Catapult Advanced Manufacturing standardized work training certificate and the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council certification while strengthening workplace readiness. 

Across all three pathways, participants also received job placement assistance following completion, helping them take the next step into employment or continued education. 

Strengthening connections that support success 

Programs like YES Indy are designed as an earn-and-learn model, giving young adults ages 18 to 24 the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and build career-ready skills, all while getting paid. This approach is especially impactful for young people facing barriers to employment or education, offering both immediate support and long-term opportunity. 

EmployIndy’s partnerships play a critical role in delivering this impact. Community-based organizations like Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center, Nehemiah Project CDC, and Public Advocates in Community re-Entry (PACE), each of which led a cohort, help build trust and provide the wraparound support participants need to succeed. 

“The success of YES Indy reinforces what we know, that investing in young people works. This is how we build a stronger workforce,” said Ken Clark, president and CEO of EmployIndy. “We’re thankful for the continued trust and shared commitment to investing in our communities and supporting our residents, specifically our next generation of skilled professionals.” 

Creating lasting impact for Indianapolis youth 

In 2025, 681 young people participated in YES Indy services. More than half transitioned into education, credential training or career pathways, generating $17.1 million in community impact. 

By aligning training with employer demand and providing comprehensive support along the way, YES Indy is helping more young people take meaningful steps toward sustainable careers. 

Thank you to our training and community partners 

EmployIndy extends its gratitude to the training and community partners who helped make these training opportunities a success: 

  • Evolve International, Inc
  • Indiana School of Phlebotomy 
  • Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center 
  • Midwest Urban Strategies 
  • The Nehemiah Project CDC 
  • Public Advocates in Community re-Entry (PACE) 
  • Skilled US 
  • Turner Built Indianapolis 
  • Wii Connect 
Connect with YES Indy

Each year, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) provides critical insights into the state’s evolving labor market. The recently released 2025 Employment and Wage Report for Marion County (Region 12) and surrounding counties (Region 5), offers a clear snapshot of how our local economy is shifting and where opportunity is growing. 

As the workforce development leader for Marion County and Indianapolis, EmployIndy is committed to translating this data into action for employers, educators and community partners. 

Key Findings

Marion County continues to anchor Indiana’s workforce activity

Marion County represents approximately 15% of Indiana’s total workforce, reinforcing Indianapolis’ role as a central hub for employment and economic activity.  

At the same time, this data reflects broader economic patterns that extend across Central Indiana’s interconnected labor market, driving job growth and talent movement. 

Health care and high-skill industries remain dominant drivers of wages 

In Indianapolis, about 14% of all earned wages are concentrated in the health care industry.  

Across the broader Central Indiana regional footprint, projected growth also points to strong demand in health care, technology, business operations and engineering occupations, demonstrating a consistent need for highly skilled talent. 

Regional growth is concentrated in high-demand, high-opportunity occupations

Long-term projections for the Region 5 show growth across occupations such as health care support, computer and mathematical roles, business and financial operations, and construction.  

These growing number of occupations show where career pathways and industries offer stronger wage potential and long-term stability for job seekers.  

Review the full 2025 Employment and Wage Report

How Employers and Community Organizations Can Use This Data 

Align workforce investments with regional demand 

Employers can use this data to prioritize hiring, training, and retention strategies in high-growth sectors like health care and advanced business services.  

For community organizations, this means aligning programs with career pathways that are growing and in-demand consistently throughout Central Indiana. 

Strengthen cross-county talent pipelines 

Talent and job opportunities do not stop at county lines. Educators, career coaches, workforce partners, and employers should increasingly collaborate across Central Indiana to build broader and more regional talent pipelines to maximize potential. 

Expand access to high-wage, high-growth careers 

The data reinforces the importance of connecting more residents to in-demand careers that offer family-sustaining wages. This includes scaling training opportunities, improving career navigation, and ensuring that all Central Indiana residents have relevant and equitable access to the education and support needed to succeed. 

Moving Forward 

This data should serve as a road map.  

At EmployIndy, we use this data every day. It informs our workforce innovations and partnerships reaching across our communities and neighborhoods, ensuring to advance the work of our employers while also ensuring every resident has access to the tools and support to build a thriving career. 

Connect with our team to learn about our employer resources

For thousands of young adults in Indianapolis, the path forward can feel uncertain. In the Indianapolis metro area alone, an estimated 24,300 youth, 16 to 24 years of age, are disconnected from critical pathways to economic and educational stability.  

EmployIndy’s PIVOT League, an eight-week basketball league hosted in partnership with The City League, is designed to meet young people where they are, creating a welcoming and engaging entry point to YES Indy services. YES Indy is an EmployIndy program that partners with community organizations to connect young people to education pathways, job training, and personalized support that helps them build the life they want. 

2026 PIVOT League Champions:
Team Wii Connect

Congratulations to Team Wii Connect
on winning the 2026 PIVOT League!

While the competition on the court is intense, the league is about far more than basketball. Players gain access to a range of resources through YES Indy, including opportunities to complete their high school education, receive career coaching, and earn industry-recognized certifications in fields like health care, advanced manufacturing and construction. YES Indy also addresses common barriers such as transportation, housing, and childcare, ensuring young people have the support they need to succeed. 

For Omavi Banks, 25, the PIVOT League became a turning point. 

“Being in the Pivot League was a blessing,” Banks said. 

Banks first connected with EmployIndy and YES Indy through the league, where he has served as a team captain for several years. Initially drawn in by the opportunity to play competitive basketball, he quickly realized the experience offered something deeper. What set the PIVOT League apart, Banks explained, was the level of care and intentional support offered to participants. 

“They also cared about the individual,” he said. “And when you’re in the league, you can’t just play and then you leave.” 

Instead, each participant is encouraged to connect with career navigators and explore resources available through YES Indy. 

“It’s definitely a big part,” Banks said. “They have all these different resources available to young people that many of us are not aware of.” 

This model transforms the league into more than a recreational outlet. For many players, it becomes a structured support system focused on long-term growth and stability. 

“Overall, it’s like a mentorship program in a way,” Banks said. “Especially when you’re showing that you’re engaged and that you’re trying and you want to do more. The league is there not only for you to do more athletically but do more mentally as well.” 

Today, Banks is looking ahead, with a vision rooted in community impact. He hopes to develop comprehensive plans that improve socioeconomic outcomes in underserved neighborhoods, including increased access to education, financial resources, and green spaces. 

His story reflects EmployIndy’s broader mission to intentionally reach young adults who are disconnected from traditional pathways and help them discover new possibilities. 

In 2025, 681 young people participated in YES Indy services. More than half transitioned into education, credential training, or career pathways—generating $17.1 million in community impact.  

Young people looking to get connected to education, job training, and career support?

Learn more about YES Indy

Central Indiana employers have been clear: make engagement with schools easy, consistent, and impactful—and they will participate. EmployIndy is delivering on that expectation through a coordinated, employer‑driven approach to talent development.

On April 16, EmployIndy convened education and industry partners from across Marion County at the Central Indiana Educational Service Center (CIESC) to advance this work. The full‑day partner meeting focused on aligning high school career pathways with real workforce needs, strengthening student experiences, and simplifying how businesses engage with schools.

During the morning session, employers and educators reviewed pathway branding, explored labor market insights tied to employability skills, and discussed scalable models for industry engagement. The message from business leaders was consistent: when partnerships are streamlined and outcomes are clear, employer participation grows.

The afternoon shifted to action. Educators examined current pathway offerings, aligned on a standardized partnership handbook process, and reviewed the 9th–12th Grade Guaranteed Experiences Continuum—ensuring students gain meaningful exposure to careers before graduation. This intentional alignment helps employers connect with better‑prepared candidates while reducing the burden of navigating multiple school partnerships.

This work is led through the Career Collaborative, a partnership between EmployIndy and CIESC grounded in the Partners for Professions framework. By creating a centralized partnership hub, standardizing engagement, and aligning pathways with labor market demand, the collaborative transforms work‑based learning into a strategic talent development solution—one that delivers real return on investment for employers.

As Indiana implements new work‑based learning requirements for the Class of 2029, employers have a timely opportunity to shape the future workforce, strengthen hiring pipelines, and support long‑term workforce sustainability.

This is not just community engagement. It is workforce strategy.

If you’re interested in streamlining your school engagement, accessing emerging talent, and helping shape Central Indiana’s future workforce, connect with:

Tracy Murphy
Senior Director, Business Partnerships
[email protected]

Together, we can build the workforce your business needs to compete and grow.

Below are strategic insights and workforce analysis gathered by our Business Partnership team to help employers navigate talent challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities in Marion County’s evolving industrial landscape.

SOURCE: JobsEQ by Chmura

Workforce at a Glance

Key metrics defining Marion County’s manufacturing workforce landscape in 2025.

Total Workforce (16+)

520,799

in Manufacturing

19,395

Unemployment rate

8.6%

Average Wage Growth*

16.6%

* Compared to 2.8% average annual growth. For example, if worker earned $50,000 in previous year, currently they earn $58,600.

Top Manufacturing Roles

The following roles represent the most in-demand positions driving Marion County’s manufacturing sector forward.

Team Assemblers

3,028 jobs

Assembling parts and components on production lines.

Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders

2,505 jobs

Operating equipment that fills, packages, and prepares products.

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

2,249 jobs

Overseeing production teams and daily workflow on the floor.

Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

2,016 jobs

Checking products for quality, accuracy, and compliance.

Manufacturing Wage Trends

A detailed breakdown of entry-level and experienced hourly wages across key manufacturing positions in Marion County. Wages reflect competitive compensation.

Critical Challenges for Employers

A detailed breakdown of entry-level and experienced hourly wages across key manufacturing positions in Marion County. Wages reflect competitive compensation.

Skills Gap

A widening dived between the technical skills employers need and those availble in the current workforce pipeline

Attracting New Talent

Competing with other industries to draw in younger workers and career changers to manufacturing roles

Retaining Experienced Workers

Keeping seasoned employees engaged and committed in a competitive labor market with rising wage expectations

Strategic Recommendations for Employers

EmployIndy can partner with you in each of the following strategies to help you build a more resilient, skilled, and engaged workforce.

1. Invest in Upskilling & Training

Partner with local education providers like Ivy Tech to develop customized training programs

2. Enhance Workplace Culture

Focus on employee engagement, career pathways, and competitive benefits to improve retention

3. Leverage Apprenticeships

Create structured apprenticeship programs to build a pipeline of skilled workers

4. Promote Industry Awareness

Connect with schools and community groups to showcase modern manufacuring careers

Building the Talent Pipeline

A structured approach to developing manufacturing talent from education through career advancement ensures long-term workforce sustainability. 

Awareness

Hiring

Training

Retention

Wage Growth Impact

With average wages growing by 16.6%, Marion County manufacturing workers are seeing meaningful gains in earning power. For example, a worker earning $50,000 in 2024 would earn $58,600 by the end of 2025. This growth reflects the sector’s commitment to competitive compensation.

16.6%

Cumulative increase in average manufacturing wages

2.8%

Year-over-year average wage growth

$58,600

New average salary—a gain of $8,600 for the average worker

Get Connected

Let us help you access a stronger, more reliable talent pipeline. Get started by reaching out, and our team will guide you through the next steps.

More than 2,800 job openings available through a year-round employment platform connecting Indianapolis youth to opportunity

INDIANAPOLIS – March 18, 2026—This morning, Mayor Joe Hogsett, EmployIndy, and employer partner AMC Theatres kicked off the summer hiring season by announcing a hiring event for the movie theatre locations across the city. Project Indy is currently offering 2,894 unique job openings for young people across Marion County, spanning 257 different positions from 174 active local employers. Through its online platform at projectindy.net, young people can easily connect with employers in their community who are hiring.

“With yet another year of Project Indy comes another fantastic opportunity for young people to gain real-life work experience and earn respectable wages,” said Mayor Hogsett. “Not only does this program set them up for success, but it also ensures that they have a safe, productive way to spend their free time this summer. Project Indy represents a win for our youth, the City, and employers across Indianapolis.”

Project Indy was launched in 2016 by Mayor Hogsett alongside EmployIndy, the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee (GIPC), and the Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY). Since its launch, 20,656 young people in Marion County have registered on the Project Indy platform to connect with employment opportunities and explore career pathways with local employers. In total, 354 employers have participated in the platform since 2016.

While many people associate Project Indy with summer jobs, the platform operates year-round, connecting young people ages 16–24 with part-time, full-time and seasonal employment opportunities across Marion County.

Youth ages 16–24 can get started using Project Indy’s virtual job board by simply texting “ProjectIndy” to 317-659-9657. This easy-to-use online platform utilizes text messaging to recruit and onboard job seekers. It also includes a location-based tool that works to connect youth to nearby opportunities as well as filtering job opportunities by interest. Once registered, job seekers can easily apply to any of the hundreds of open positions by providing a few pieces of basic information.

By hiring in-school and out-of-school youth throughout Marion County, local employers provide employability skill development and job-readiness training, playing an important role in training our future workforce. Programs like Project Indy also help connect young people to positive opportunities that support long-term success.

“At EmployIndy, our goal is to connect young people to opportunity while helping employers build strong talent pipelines for the future,” said Ken Clark, president and CEO of EmployIndy. “Through Project Indy, young people gain valuable work experience while local employers connect with motivated young talent across our community.”

EmployIndy, which administers Project Indy, will continue promoting the platform through face-to-face recruiting at Indianapolis-area high schools, targeted social media campaigns and participation in youth hiring fairs. The organization also works closely with community organizations and workforce partners to ensure young people across Indianapolis are aware of and able to access available opportunities.

In 2018, EmployIndy, in partnership with the City of Indianapolis and the Indy Chamber, launched Job Ready Indy, an online employability skills program designed to help young people build the workplace skills needed for career success. When an individual completes one of the online courses, a Job Ready Indy badge appears on their Project Indy profile, notifying employers that they have demonstrated key workplace readiness skills.

Employers interested in hiring youth can sign up to be a Project Indy partner through the Project Indy platform.

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EmployIndy’s Company Culture Cohort for Choice Employers supported organizations across industries as they worked to strengthen workplace culture. The program focused on engagement, retention, trust, leadership, recognition, and respect—helping employers align company culture with job quality through intentional, measurable strategies.

Designed to help organizations assess and shape their workplace culture, the cohort included Connor Painting, EnPower Inc., and Lutheran Family and Child Services. Sessions encouraged employers to focus on one or two priority goals rather than attempting broad change all at once, and featured expert guest speakers and practical, relevant content. Up to three staff members per company participated, with meals and materials provided.

Lutheran Family and Child Services shared how the cohort supported its efforts to align workplace culture with its mission-driven values of being, belonging, and becoming. Through coaching and peer learning, the organization reinforced practices aimed at helping staff feel supported, valued and encouraged to grow, strengthening trust and leadership across the agency.

EnPower Inc., a U.S.-based lithium-ion battery startup, highlighted how the cohort helped guide intentional culture-building during a period of organizational growth. By participating in cohort discussions and using shared tools, EnPower explored ways to elevate employee voice, strengthen recognition and apply feedback to future engagement strategies.

During an open forum portion of a session, one participating employer said, “I just want to say how happy I am to be part of this cohort. It’s been so informative already, and I’m excited for this year of coaching.”

By combining expert guidance, peer learning and focused goal-setting, EmployIndy’s Company Culture Cohort helped employers strengthen workplace culture and invest in long-term success.

EmployIndy’s Choice Employers program works with businesses to give them hands-on support to improve the areas that matter most to their workforce, with an emphasis on good wages, culture & equity, employee supports, and career pathways. Last year, EmployIndy invested $23.5 million in expanding access, improving job quality, and advancing workers through employer partnerships, with $5.81 million in increased wages through our Good Wages Initiative.

Interested in participating in a future Company Culture Cohort?

Contact Lora Steele, Director of Business Consulting, at [email protected].