VU Creates ‘Living’ Tech Community For Women
![VU Creates ‘Living’ Tech Community For Women](https://www.insideindianabusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/10416334_G.jpg)
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowVincennes University President Chuck Johnson says a new partnership with the Indiana Manufacturers Association is "another piece of the puzzle" in getting more women in STEM-related careers. The program includes scholarships and a "living, learning technology community" for women. He says the initiative will also enhance corporate partnerships with companies including Toyota, SIA and Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT).
The school announced the program earlier this month, saying it will focus on "fit" for the four dozen scholarships, not necessarily grade point average. The effort will focus on high-demand careers including CNC machining, industrial maintenance, electronics and architecture.
IMA Vice President Andrew Berger says advanced manufacturing businesses are "ready and willing" to invest in Indiana, but some are hesitant because they are unsure that they will find workers with the skills they need. He says, however, the partnership is not just about training those workers – it’s about getting the message out that "this is a great career." Despite what he calls international headwinds in the industry, Berger says Indiana’s business and regulatory climate makes it a good place to bring manufacturing business.
Vincennes Vice President for Finance and Government Relations Phil Rath spoke with Inside INdiana Business earlier this month, and said the program has already received statewide interest. He said the initiative could also keep Indiana students in the state after graduation and help manufacturers with their employee retention levels.