Building Indy’s future with homegrown talent
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The Indy region is at a critical juncture in its growth and development, where businesses, civic leaders, and higher education institutions must unite to address a growing skilled workforce shortage. The region has seen impressive growth, but talent retention, especially among college graduates, remains a concern.
Despite the area’s momentum, too many graduates leave for greener pastures, literally. Higher education plays an essential role, and businesses must step up where government won’t to support the infrastructure that will keep talent.
Studies show that graduates are more likely to stay in the state where they complete their education; yet, Indiana ranks No. 40 in the nation for graduate retention. This trend, worsening over the last five years, underscores the urgency of addressing this concern. The state’s tax-friendly climate for businesses and residents is necessary but not sufficient to plug the drain. Graduates aren’t just looking for pro-business policies; now more than ever, they are looking at what life outside of work looks like.
Long-term retention requires high-paying jobs with good benefits and a city that offers the lifestyle, culture, and amenities young professionals seek. Central Indiana produces top talent in manufacturing, technology, engineering, and healthcare, yet too many graduates look elsewhere for better job opportunities or a more dynamic quality of life.
Central Indiana’s manufacturing and life sciences sectors are setting the standard for both career readiness and workforce quality of life. Companies like Cummins, Allison Transmission, and Eli Lilly aren’t just expanding—they’re shaping the employee experience by offering competitive benefits that go beyond salary. From Eli Lilly’s industry-leading paid parental leave to Cummins’ flexible work policies, these companies understand that attracting and retaining top talent requires more than just job opportunities; it means creating workplaces that support employees’ well-being and work-life balance. While these industries have long been economic pillars, emerging sectors like tech, logistics, and creative industries must follow suit, ensuring graduates find not only career opportunities but also the incentives and support that make Indianapolis a compelling place to build a future.
Investing in spaces that enhance daily living, such as parks, trails, entertainment, dining, etc., can make Indy a place graduates want to live, work, and stay. Purdue’s campus extension in Indianapolis connects students to the region’s innovation ecosystem, including High Alpha at Bottleworks, 16Tech, and Elanco. Peer metros like Austin and Raleigh have demonstrated how investments in lifestyle infrastructure—from public parks to arts districts—elevate the living experience and cultivate a sense of community that keeps young talent from leaving. Indy should follow suit by intentionally designing high-demand districts with the amenities and opportunities that experts, entrepreneurs, and students seek.
Internships play a vital role in bridging the gap between academic learning and professional experience. But according to a recent Indy Chamber economic outlook survey, 81% of businesses underutilize them. Programs like Indy Chamber’s Fast Forward help bridge this gap, showcasing Indy’s career opportunities and, equally as important, its vibrant culture offerings. But more companies should expand their internship offerings—especially paid positions and virtual opportunities—to ensure that students from all backgrounds can engage and build the career foundation they need right here in Central Indiana.
The time to act is now. Central Indiana has a competitive edge in the talent competition thanks to its robust manufacturing base, top-notch educational institutions, and increasing emphasis on innovation. However, to create an ecosystem that provides mentorship, employment prospects, and a strong incentive for students to stay, businesses and universities must collaborate by aligning education with industry demand and utilize innovation districts to retain top talent. We can guarantee that the talent required for tomorrow’s economy stays in Central Indiana and contributes to the long-term prosperity of the area by encouraging innovation, supporting higher education, and investing in infrastructure. If you build it, they will stay.