INDIANAPOLIS — Advanced manufacturing and logistics account for one-third of Indiana's gross domestic product and an estimated 500,000 job. But like many industries manufacturing and logistics are facing a shortage of skilled workers. Retiring workers could leave more than 100,000 jobs open in coming years, as well.
That's one of the main reasons nonprofit workforce builder Conexus Indiana is partnering with Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana on a new jobs and a career training initiative on the northeast side of Indianapolis.
As part of the Make & Move Up program announced Thursday, as many as 50 residents will receive paid training in advanced manufacturing and logistics to develop skills to bring to the workforce.
The project includes a new manufacturing facility at 6190 E. 38th Street, near Arlington Avenue, that is expected to bring 100 jobs at a starting wage of $15 per hour. A $200,000 gift from JPMorgan Chase will fund the Conexus training program, called Catapult Indiana. It aligns with the community collaboration between Goodwill, Cook Medical and the United Northeast Community Development Corporation.
"Make & Move Up will offer exciting new opportunities to residents for well-paying careers while also adding to the neighborhood's long-term prospects by developing a workforce ready to succeed with advanced manufacturing and logistics employers," said Conexus Indiana President and CEO Fred Cartwright.
Kent A. Kramer, president and CEO of Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana, said the partnership with Conexus taps into northeast side's "human potential" to provide opportunities. "I can't wait to witness Make & Move Up's long-term impact," Kramer said.
Conexus and Goodwill are working on creating more jobs at the new production facility as well as its facilities on the west side and in Bloomington, which offer services to local, regional and global companies. "By contracting with Goodwill, businesses not only get their needs met, but they help to meet the needs of our local neighborhoods," Cartwright said.
The northeast side experiences high levels of poverty and unemployment, and the initiative hopefully helps the community move forward. Ashley Gurvitz is chief operations officer and executive director of United Northeast Community Development Corporation, and said, "Make & Move Up will strengthen both individuals and the community, which puts the community on a pathway to a brighter future."
Training for Make & Move Up is expected to begin later this year at the previous site of Goodwill's Outlet East at 2900 North Shadeland Ave.