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 
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