Last Updated on August 19, 2017 by cassnetwork
STATEHOUSE – Hoosier job seekers now have access to new resources to find better-paying jobs thanks to the recently launched Next Level Jobs initiative, according to State Rep. Bill Friend (R-Macy).
Friend said while Indiana’s unemployment rate is near record low, employers in high-need, high-wage fields are searching for qualified workers. To meet immediate and future workforce demands, Gov. Eric Holcomb recently launched the Next Level Jobs initiative, which includes nextleveljobs.org and two new grant programs.
The website connects job seekers with local training and resources to find jobs in high-demand industries. Friend said while a two- or four-year degree isn’t for everyone, Workforce Ready Grants cover the costs of tuition for working adults earning a high-value certificate at Ivy Tech or Vincennes University.
“A challenge in rural Indiana is attracting job creators to our community,” said Friend, who supported legislation creating the grant. “With more jobs requiring training beyond high school, we need to ensure that local job seekers are prepared to compete for these roles. With the Workforce Ready Grant, working adults are able to obtain the skills needed to advance their careers, while still holding down a job and supporting their family.”
According to the Department of Workforce Development, 1 million job openings are expected in Indiana by 2025 and, of those, about 400,000 will be in high-wage, high-need fields. These industries include advanced manufacturing, agriculture, building and construction, health and life sciences, IT and business services, and transportation and logistics.
To help employers in these industries train and retain workers, the new Employer Training Grant will provide up to $2,500 per new employee to qualifying companies.
Friend said over the next two years, these grant programs will provide roughly $20 million to help Hoosier workers and employers meet workforce demands.
Information and applications for both grants can be found online at nextleveljobs.org.
SOURCE: News release from State Rep. Bill Friend who represents House District 23, which includes portions of Cass, Fulton and Miami counties.