You talked and we listened – and have responded. Indiana business leaders have communicated about their talent challenges and the resulting impediment to business growth. To assist, the Indiana Chamber has formed the Institute for Workforce Excellence.

“This is clearly the top issue impacting companies in Indiana and beyond,” says Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar. “The Institute will focus on helping businesses attract, develop and retain talent.”

The Institute coordinates a variety of existing programs – policy research and advocacy, training, Indiana INTERNnet, Wellness Council of Indiana and more – with new initiatives. Potential areas of focus for upcoming partnerships include apprenticeships, talent assessment, employer learning networks and more.

Jason Bearce, Chamber vice president of education and workforce policy, will oversee the efforts of the Institute. “The combination of current efforts and innovative additions will assist employers across the spectrum of workforce challenges. We’re ready to help Chamber members realize their fullest potential.”

The importance of the Institute is further demonstrated by the results of the Indiana Chamber Foundation’s 11th annual employer workforce survey. The survey was made possible by the lead sponsorship of Tilson with support from WGU Indiana.

More than half of survey respondents left jobs unfilled in the past year due to underqualified applicants. A total of 80% cite filling their workforce needs as one of their biggest challenges. Both are continuations of troubling five-year trends.

A majority (73%) have not used the state’s WorkOne employment system and only 33% indicate they partner with educational institutions to develop talent. Fifty-six percent expect to increase the size of their workforce in the next 12 to 24 months – if they can find the people.

See the links below for additional information: