At Conexus Indiana, we know that preparing the next generation of advanced manufacturing talent starts with aligning education to the needs of industry. That’s why we’re committed to ensuring students across the state gain hands-on experience with the technologies, tools and systems used in today’s—and tomorrow’s—advanced manufacturing workplaces.
The annual Education Readiness Grants program through the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, which Conexus administers, does just that. This year, we’re celebrating more than $1.1 million awarded to schools across the state, and we’re especially excited about the transformative impact these grants will have on seven educational institutions expanding their advanced manufacturing programs.
Each of these schools is implementing new equipment, updated curriculum and building robust industry partnerships to prepare students for high-demand, high-tech careers in smart manufacturing.
Below, we highlight how each grant recipient is using this funding to strengthen their programs and better prepare students for careers in a rapidly changing industry.
MSD of Steuben County – Angola High School
Angola High School is closing the loop on its advanced manufacturing curriculum with the addition of Amatrol’s Tabletop Mechatronics trainer. With this investment, students will now gain hands-on experience in skills like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)—key technologies in today’s manufacturing environment. In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, students can also earn dual credits while preparing for industry-recognized certifications. By enhancing both the theoretical and practical aspects of their program, MSD of Steuben County is making its Advanced Manufacturing Graduation Pathway a compelling option for more students.
Southwest Dubois County School Corporation
Southwest Dubois County is outfitting its students with tools straight from today’s smart factories. With new Amatrol systems—including precision measurement, AC/DC electrical systems, and basic pneumatic/hydraulic training stations—students will gain experience operating the same equipment they’ll find in Indiana manufacturing facilities. This hands-on, skills-based learning approach offers a powerful incentive for students to consider a career in manufacturing—particularly those who may not have previously seen themselves in technical careers.
Anderson Community Schools / District 26 Career Center
Anderson is focused on building a manufacturing program that not only meets employer needs but excites students about future careers. By adding advanced tools like the Fanuc CNC Simulator and the ER-4iA Robot, students will be able to dive into real-world training in CNC machining, robotics programming, automation and digital manufacturing. Instructors will also receive targeted training to maximize the impact of this new equipment. As Industry 4.0 continues to reshape the industry, Anderson’s students will be more than ready to enter the workforce.
Northeast Dubois Jr./Sr. High School
At Northeast Dubois, the student-run “Jeep Enterprises” is getting a high-tech upgrade. With the addition of a dual-tool CNC plasma cutting table, students across engineering, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing programs will now collaborate on production projects using advanced software and cutting-edge tools. The school’s partnership with Jasper Engines ensures that students gain experience tied directly to industry needs. This is manufacturing education that not only builds skills, it generates real revenue and community value.
Adams Central High School
Adams Central is focused on one of the fastest-growing areas of advanced manufacturing: robotics. With new robotic arms being added to the classroom, students will train specifically on FANUC systems, which dominate the industrial robotics market. This opens the door for students to earn FANUC Level 1 Operator Certification, making them immediately employable upon graduation. Local employers are already investing in robotics, and this program ensures Adams Central students are ready to meet that demand.
Eastbrook High School
Just one year in, Eastbrook High School’s Industrial Automation and Robotics program is booming, with 55 students enrolled and plans to grow into a four-year pathway. With help from the grant, the school will expand the program to support 30 students per class and continue integrating Amatrol’s Industry 4.0 curriculum. Students will learn skills in basic circuits, PLC programming and smart factory systems, and apply that knowledge through their student-run business, EBEAMS. From design to shipping via Amazon FBA, Eastbrook students will experience the full product lifecycle.
New Castle High School
New Castle is in year three of a long-term plan to realign its Career & Technical Education offerings with the needs of local industry. That strategy is paying off. With a pathway in Industrial Automation and Robotics now in place, the school is preparing its first graduating cohort for 2025–26. Thanks to the grant, students will train on the equipment they’ll encounter in real-world manufacturing roles, bridging classroom instruction with robust work-based learning opportunities. New Castle’s strong employer partnerships and early career exploration model set a powerful example for career-readiness education.
At Conexus Indiana, we’re proud to play a role in helping prepare the next generation of talent for meaningful careers in advanced manufacturing. With the right tools, training and support, these students are preparing to lead Indiana’s future economy.