Community gathers to learn about Indiana’s new high school diploma and its impact on students and employers

Greensburg, IN – Local employers, educators, and community leaders filled Greensburg City Hall on Thursday for
Workforce Partners: What Employers Need to Know, an event hosted by the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce and Decatur County EDC. The session highlighted Indiana’s upcoming changes to high school graduation requirements and the opportunities they create for both students and businesses.

The event featured presentations from:

• Erica Viar, Vice President, Workforce Strategies, Ascend Indiana
• Sally Saydsheov, Executive Director, Institute for Workforce Excellence, Indiana Chamber of Commerce
• PJ McGrew, Senior Vice President, Talent Strategy & Programming, Conexus Indiana
• Ronald Sandlin, Chief Innovation Officer, Indiana Department of Education

Speakers emphasized the themes of symbiosis and freedom — with students gaining greater freedom to pursue classes that align with their career interests, while employers have new opportunities to engage with schools and help shape the local talent pipeline.

Key takeaways from the event included:

• Indiana is transitioning away from the Core 40 Diploma and introducing new diploma seals, which will provide students with flexible, career-focused pathways.
• The EARN Indiana program offers a 50% wage reimbursement (up to $45,000 annually) to employers who hire work-based learning students.
• CEMETS iLab Indiana & INCAP are bringing lessons from Switzerland’s world-class apprenticeship model to Indiana, combining classroom instruction with paid, hands-on learning.
• Industry Talent Associations (ITAs) are working directly with employers to identify in-demand occupations, defi ne key competencies, and develop training that aligns with real workforce needs.

“We’re entering a new era where education and business are working hand-in-hand,” said one attendee. “This diploma not only benefits students but also empowers employers to play a role in preparing the future workforce.”

The event concluded with a networking lunch provided by Steamboat Catering, giving attendees the chance to continue conversations about collaboration and workforce development.

For more information about Indiana’s new diploma and work-based learning opportunities, visit:
https://decaturworkforceready.my.canva.site/faq-landing-page