Jobs, Consumer Demand Spark Optimism

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An Indiana University Southeast economist says an improving national economy is leading to “very positive” projections for the state. Executive Vice Chancellor For Academic Affairs Uric Dufrene is delivering his annual Labor Day Economic Outlook this afternoon. He says improving job growth and pent-up demand for homes and automobiles have him feeling “the most optimistic” since he began the presentations in 2006. Dufrene says the increasing housing and auto demand is good for Indiana's manufacturing sector. Although that industry is still the main driver of Indiana's economy, he says the state is much more diversified than it was 10 or 15 years ago.

He believes the state can continue the upward trend over the next several years. Dufrene says increasing educational attainment will be the “major driver” of long-term economic growth.

Dufrene has served as the Sanders Chair in Business at IU Southeast since 2006. He was named vice chancellor for academic affairs in May.

Source: Indiana University Southeast