By Andi Anderson
Ivy Tech Community College has launched a new Achieve Your Degree partnership aimed at strengthening Indiana’s advanced manufacturing workforce.
The initiative was developed with regional industry leaders to support employees while they continue working full time.
The program was created in collaboration with pharmaceutical manufacturer Evonik Tippecanoe Labs, biotechnology leader Primient, and Greater Lafayette Commerce.
It introduces a customized Operations Associate, Process Technician degree pathway that responds directly to modern workforce needs.
The first cohort includes thirteen employees from participating companies. Seven employees come from Evonik. These workers are enrolled in a structured associate degree program designed around Ivy Tech’s five term academic model.
Coursework focuses on technical instruction aligned with real manufacturing operations. Subjects include applied mathematics, chemistry, smart manufacturing, and digital integration. The design allows employees to gain new skills without stepping away from daily job responsibilities.
“This partnership reflects what’s possible when education and industry design solutions together,” said Aaron Baute, chancellor, Ivy Tech Community College Lafayette. “By working alongside each employer, we are able to align curriculum to real operational needs and structure programs in ways that reduce barriers for both employees and companies. That flexibility is essential to building a resilient regional workforce.”
Employers view the ‘Achieve Your Degree’ model as a long-term talent development approach. Employees receive structured education linked directly to workplace learning. Each partner adapts the program to match operational goals.
“We need to prepare our employees for the future of manufacturing,” said Todd Wetli, Tippecanoe Labs Site Manager. “With the rapid advancements in our industry, it is essential to equip employees with crucial skills. This customized program allows them to earn a credential while gaining hands-on experience, charting a clear path from entry-level roles to advanced positions.”
Primient leaders also highlighted the benefits of workforce integration.
“This partnership encourages the growth and development of Primient’s employees, who are learning the technical skills required within a modern highly automated manufacturing environment,” said Travis Montoya, VP of Wet Mill Operations, Primient. “We are excited to see our employees develop advanced manufacturing technical skills that will empower them to succeed at our world-class bio-refinery plant in Lafayette.”
Greater Lafayette Commerce supported the partnership by connecting education and industry.
“Greater Lafayette’s economic momentum depends on our ability to develop talent at the speed of industry,” said Mikel Berger, President & CEO, Greater Lafayette Commerce. “This partnership shows what happens when employers and educators design solutions together. Creating opportunities for workers while ensuring companies can grow and invest here with confidence.”
The cohort meets twice weekly at Ivy Tech’s Lafayette campus. Participants earn credentials that strengthen career stability and support regional manufacturing growth.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Indiana, Education