While the U.S. manufacturing and logistics sectors face many challenges, a lack of high-paying jobs isn’t among them. A lack of people is.

Workforce shortages are a major concern among manufacturers nationwide. In a member survey conducted by the National Association of Manufacturers, 80% said they were experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. Demand for logistics workers is also growing, as U.S. freight volume is expected to double by 2035.

In our knowledge-based economy, a skilled workforce is our most valuable resource. That’s why Conexus Indiana’s top priority is building an advanced manufacturing and logistics labor force that’s second to none.

The initiative is working with the state’s excellent public universities and community college network to create cutting-edge curricula that teach the skills needed in today’s high tech manufacturing and supply chain operations. Conexus is also the statewide partner for the National Association’s Dream It. Do It. program and is implementing an aggressive marketing and grassroots outreach program to attract more young people into critical occupations.

Indiana has the location, the infrastructure, the heritage and innovative spirit to emerge as the global leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics. Building from a workforce that’s already among the most manufacturing-intensive in the nation, Conexus Indiana is working to make human capital first among these advantages.