Career and Technical Education ecosystem study shows 5-counties south of Allen work well together
The Don Wood Foundation, a private foundation dedicated to leadership, entrepreneurship, and manufacturing development in the region, today unveiled its research study on the career and technical education (CTE) ecosystem for Adams, Grant, Huntington, Wabash, and Wells counties.
“This 5-county regional CTE study completes the assessment of offerings and workforce needs for our region,” said Patrick Buesching, vice president, strategic initiatives, Don Wood Foundation. “This research is a big deal because it’s the first of its kind in the state to provide an in-depth look at how we better align career and technical education and training with surrounding workforce needs.”
Key findings from the study underscore that, while the region has a robust CTE infrastructure, opportunities exist to improve access to quality CTE programs, enhance industry partnerships, and address workforce skills gaps. For instance, the data reveals that more than 60% of surveyed employers in the region experience challenges finding skilled labor for high-demand roles—a gap the report addresses with strategic recommendations.
“The purpose of the research is to foster a thriving ecosystem where students are prepared with the skills that regional employers need. This report is an essential step in guiding our educational institutions, business leaders, and community stakeholders towards a more integrated approach to workforce development,” said Buesching.
The report outlines a series of targeted recommendations, such as strengthening industry-education partnerships, creating clearer CTE career pathways, and increasing program funding. The report indicates that local schools, employers, and policymakers should collaborate on the recommendations to ensure that CTE continues to be a driving force in northeast Indiana’s economic growth. The 5-county study is the fourth research CTE study that the DWF has conducted since April 2023.
Career and technical education combine employer needs with hands-on and relevant training in skilled trades, applied sciences, and modern technologies. Courses provide students with the skills and experience to excel in careers in agriculture, building and construction, culinary arts, education and child development, engineering and architecture, fashion and interior design, healthcare, hospitality, information technologies, manufacturing, marketing, medical technology, product development, robotics, and others.
DWF and TPMA, an Indianapolis-based consulting firm, initiated the study earlier this year duplicating the same process as the previous studies, with a discovery phase, a review of current data, plans, and resources. Input from key stakeholders is critical to the success of the study. For more information or to view the full report, visit the Don Wood Foundation's website here.