In the glory days of Indiana high school basketball, one of the fiercest rivalries was between Anderson and Muncie Central high schools. The neighboring cities also share a rich automotive history.

Today, a leading Delaware County employer and a private college in Madison County are joining forces to help combat the workforce challenge. Ontario Systems and Anderson University teamed late last month to open “The Cube,” an on-campus tech talent incubator.

Ontario Systems provides revenue cycle management software to corporate, government and health care clients across the country. A tech leader since 1980, it has been on the state’s Best Places to Work list the last four years.

Anderson University celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017. It offers more than 50 majors, with The Cube designed to help prepare School of Science and Engineering students for future careers.

This is the type of local partnership needed throughout the state. The participants outline the value.

“Anderson University believes in the importance of collaboration and real-life professional experiences for our students,” says Jennifer Coy, chair of the AU department of computer science and professor of computer science and physics. “Our students tell us that the exposure to new technology, challenges and team lessons are critical to them both during their time with us and as they transition into their professional life after graduation.”

Jason Harrington, president of Ontario Systems, adds, “This is a great opportunity to help students develop their technical and professional skills, strengthen our talent pipeline as we grow and make a positive impact on our industry and economy.”

Students will work side by side with Ontario Systems experts at The Cube and have the opportunity to obtain paid internships and/or part-time and full-time jobs with Ontario Systems while they pursue a degree.