In 2023, to help inspire the next generation of advanced manufacturing and logistics professionals, Conexus partnered with the Office of Career and Technical Education to provide grants for Indiana secondary schools to purchase hardware and software that create foundational exposure to today’s smart manufacturing technology. In addition, we supported each Conexus Student Industries program with grants to improve their work-based learning programs across the state.

Our manufacturing and logistics professionals make Indiana move. If you’re a part of the industry, you know that first-hand. But often, kids and young adults aren’t exposed to the exciting opportunities offered by AML careers. This year, we reached countless Gen Z Hoosiers through our Make IN Move campaigns, which inspire young people to consider AML careers.

A company’s operation is more than its day-to-day activities, it’s a journey and a story. Curating a flexible and growth-oriented atmosphere for your workforce or implementing Industry 4.0 technology are critical milestones along that journey. Through our  tech adoption and workforce development  case studies, industry share  how they are going above and beyond to enrich their operations and solve critical problems.

Collaboration is key to boosting Indiana’s advanced manufacturing and logistics industries. That’s why, this year, we’re proud to have hosted many meetings, working groups and events for our Advanced Industries Council partners to network with other movers and makers and stay in the know about the goings-on in the industry.

The best way to learn about someone is to take a walk in their shoes.. This year, our team engaged with students and teachers  in work-based learning programs so students can better understand AML through experiences inside and outside of the classroom.  

Technologies that define Industry 4.0, such as cobots and additive manufacturing, are quickly catching on, but there is always more to learn. Through our many educational events this year, industry has learned about everything  from warehouse automation to remote workforce connectivity.

Our partners work hard to ensure second-chance Hoosiers have  opportunities to build a great career in advanced manufacturing – and many of those individuals are introduced to AML through our Catapult Indiana program, which had another milestone year in 2023. Thanks to a new partnership with Carey Services, which serves people with disabilities in Indiana, we now serve a new population of Hoosiers in their pursuit of meaningful work.

Investments in Industry 4.0 technology are one way AML companies are innovating for the future. However, innovation requires access to resources. That’s why we partnered with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to support tech-enabled investment in smart manufacturing across the state. We’re proud to report that we have supported an additional 161 companies with Manufacturing Readiness Grants this past year. Since the launch of the program, 526 grants have been awarded, totaling $57 million, to AML companies in 79 Indiana counties.

Our team visits advanced manufacturing and logistics facilities all around the state – whether it is to meet with council partners, answer questions or learn more about their organization and community. If you’re one of the many companies we’ve visited this year, thank you! When you welcome us in, you help us better understand the strengths of the industry, the uniqueness of our state’s communities and the opportunities for continued growth.