Ivy Tech Community College: Shaping the Future Workforce of Hancock County

As the dynamics of the workforce evolve, so does the need for educational institutions to keep pace with these changes. Ivy Tech Community College, with 19 campuses across Indiana, plays a key role in preparing students for jobs. The Ivy+ Career Link team is providing demand-driven education, collaborating with local employers, and adapting to the shifting priorities of the younger generation, Ivy Tech is equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's job market.

Preparing Tomorrow's Workforce Today

Ivy Tech Community College has long been at the forefront of workforce development, offering programs specifically tailored to meet the needs of employers in Hancock County and beyond. Focusing on providing industry-recognized certifications and customized training programs, Ivy Tech ensures that students are not just educated but job-ready from day one.

In Hancock County, through its Anderson campus, the Ivy+ Career Link team is dedicated to creating educational pathways that lead directly to employment. This process involves developing talent pipelines and delivering custom training solutions that align with the specific needs of local companies. By actively seeking input from industry partners, including the Hancock Economic Development Council, Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, and Community Foundation of Hancock County, Ivy Tech ensures that its programs remain relevant and responsive to the demands of the job market.

The Ivy+ Career Link is central to this effort, offering comprehensive support to students and alumni through Career Coaches and Talent Connection Managers. These professionals work closely with students to define career goals, develop resumes and cover letters, enhance interview and networking skills, and coordinate internships and work-based learning opportunities.

"One growth opportunity we see at the Anderson campus is educating current and future generations on how careers in Advanced Manufacturing, specifically, have evolved compared to ten or more years ago," said a representative of Ivy Tech. "Many of the initiatives we offer are aimed at fostering a clear understanding of the in-demand and valuable positions within this field."

Collaborating with Local Employers

One of the key strategies Ivy Tech employs to align its programs with the job market's needs is close collaboration with local employers. Ivy Tech stays ahead of workforce trends and ensures that its offerings are in sync with industry demands by:

• Recruiting local professionals to serve on program boards
• Inviting employers to participate in surveys and roundtables
• Utilizing workforce data from leading labor market analysis software

"We take a holistic approach to strengthening the talent pipeline by providing early and continuous exposure to various career opportunities, helping young people discover their interests and strengths," said a representative from Ivy Tech.

In Hancock County, the community college's initiatives are designed to strengthen the local talent pipeline by providing early and continuous exposure to various career opportunities, including:

• Mobile STEM Lab: A mobile STEM lab has engaged with numerous elementary schools to spark curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM subjects. 
• CareerLink Department: Career Exploration courses available to local high school students, aiding them in identifying career clusters that match their interests. 
• K-12 Department: Collaborate with Hancock County schools to provide dual credit and enrollment courses, continually expanding these offerings to allow high school students to advance their post-secondary education. 
• Apprenticeship Advocacy: Host Manufacturers Roundtables to promote the value of apprenticeships, debunk myths, and explore their application in the evolving field of advanced manufacturing. 
• Custom Training Programs: Develop tailored training and degree programs with local companies to upskill their workforce in response to current demands.

Addressing Emerging Workforce Trends

As Ivy Tech continues to engage with the next generation of workers, several emerging trends have become apparent. Today's students place a growing emphasis on work-life balance and flexible working arrangements. They also have a strong desire to work for socially responsible companies and are increasingly aware of workforce options that require less formal education. These preferences reflect a shift in the workforce landscape, and Ivy Tech is adapting its programs to meet these changing needs.

In response to employers' concerns about the challenges of hiring and working with Gen Z employees, Ivy Tech has taken proactive steps to address these issues. The college's instructors incorporate soft skills training like effective communication, time management, teamwork, and conflict resolution. Additionally, Ivy Tech prioritizes creating opportunities for students to engage with local professionals, where they can practice these essential skills in real-world settings.

Ivy Tech's Talent Connection Manager works closely with students and employers through internships and work-based learning opportunities to set goals that encourage soft skills development. The goal is to strike a balance between supporting students' skill development and nurturing their strengths, ensuring that the next generation of workers is well-equipped to meet the demands of the future workforce.

Hancock County: A Hub for Workforce Success

Ivy Tech Community College's efforts in Hancock County demonstrate the vital role that educational institutions play in preparing and placing students in the workforce. Many employers have recognized the importance of upskilling their workforce and have developed comprehensive training programs.

By collaborating with local employers, addressing emerging trends, and providing tailored educational pathways, Ivy Tech is helping to create a dynamic and thriving workforce in Hancock County. Ivy Tech has adapted to meet the specific needs of employers in two key ways:

• Skills Training Program: Offering campuses the flexibility to run in-demand workforce certification courses and create custom training programs. 
• Creating Custom Industrial Degrees: Working closely with an organization to develop a unique, company-specific training solution called an Interdisciplinary Workforce Degree.

As education and workforce landscapes change, educational institutions and employers must remain flexible and collaborate on innovative solutions. With the resources and expertise to support the next generation of workers, Hancock County is well-positioned to succeed in an ever-changing work dynamic, ensuring its community remains competitive in the years to come.

HEDC's Strategic Partnerships Develop a Solid Talent Pipeline for Hancock County Businesses

The Hancock Economic Development Council is dedicated to empowering businesses of all sizes, fueling growth, and fostering a thriving community. Our unwavering commitment to Hancock County drives us to address the workforce needs of our county's business and ensure a robust talent pipeline. Discover how the HEDC can support your business by visiting our workforce resources or reaching out directly—let's work together to build a brighter future for Hancock County.