Last week, CNBC released its America’s Top Places for Business in 2022. Indiana improved five places to number 14 (great news!), but a glaring downfall was the area in which we ranked near the bottom – at 48 when it comes to workforce.
As Chamber President Kevin Brinegar put it, “This underscores that workforce development is by far Indiana’s biggest challenge going forward as we work to compete in a talent-driven economy. We have a great business climate but need a stronger and deeper talent pool to support it.”
One avenue we wanted to bring to your attention that can assist you in your efforts to upskill your own workforce and improve your talent pipeline is through our partnership with Ivy Tech Community College.
With the Achieve Your Degree program, Hoosier employers that are Indiana Chamber members can offer their full-time employees a 5% discount on tuition costs, or take advantage of that savings if the company already pays employee tuition. The employer-paid tuition payment is deferred until the end of each term.
Though the name implies getting a degree, which a person ultimately can, that’s not the only path. The AYD program is frequently used for training certifications and other credentials, which can aid an employer in more immediate training needs. But those credentials earned are stackable and can be used for an associate’s or bachelor’s degree if desired down the road.
Employees taking part in AYD receive support with financial aid applications, advising, customized academic plans and both online and on-campus coursework options.
In the four years since we’ve been a part of this program, we’ve seen the partnership with Ivy Tech pay off for our member companies in several ways: skill upgrades, cost savings and building employee loyalty by offering the benefit.
Member companies interested in learning more or signing up can find more information at www.indianachamber.com/achieve.
