Do you enjoy tinkering with things or working with technology? Do you like to solve problems and see the impact of your efforts in real time? If you’re interested in creating products that people use every day or making sure goods are delivered quickly and efficiently, a career in advanced manufacturing and logistics could be for you!
What is advanced manufacturing and logistics?
Advanced manufacturing and logistics, or AML is the integration of cutting-edge technology, automation, and data-driven processes to efficiently produce, manage, and transport goods from raw materials to finished products. AML is about making and moving goods faster, smarter, and more sustainably. AML is essential to daily life. Nearly everything we use – our cars, cell phones, clothing, food packaging, and even medicine – comes from a manufacturing facility before being transported through logistics networks. The advancements in technology within this industry offer an exciting plethora of career path options for problem-solvers, innovators, and those who enjoy hands-on work.
Why choose a career in advanced manufacturing and logistics?
If you like working with technology, solving problems, or figuring out how things are made and delivered, a career in Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics (AML) could be a great fit. Indiana is a national leader in this industry, with manufacturing alone contributing over $100 billion to the economy and employing one in five people in the state. Logistics is just as important—it keeps products moving efficiently from factories to stores, warehouses, and even your doorstep. Careers in AML offer hands-on work, cutting-edge technology, and plenty of room to grow. Whether you’re designing smart factories, working with robotics, or helping products get where they need to go, this industry has high-paying, in-demand jobs that can lead to a strong and stable future. Plus, as technology advances, there are more exciting opportunities than ever to get involved and make an impact!
Career Paths in Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics
With 1 in 5 Hoosiers working in the advanced manufacturing and logistics industry, there are a number of interesting jobs out there that you may not have considered. Here’s a look at a few:
3D Printing Technician – Work with 3D printers to create parts and products for industries like aerospace, healthcare, and automotive.
Automation Technician – Install, repair, and maintain robotic and automated systems in factories and warehouses.
Aviation Mechanic – Inspect and repair aircraft to keep planes flying safely and efficiently.
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machinist – Program and operate high-tech machines that shape metal, plastic, and other materials.
Cybersecurity Analyst – Protect manufacturing systems and supply chains from cyber threats.
Drones & Robots Technician – Build, program, and maintain drones and robots used in warehouses and manufacturing plants.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Technician – Work on the production and maintenance of elective cars, batteries, and charging stations.
Industrial Designer – Create and design new products, tools, and equipment using a mix of creativity and engineering.
Industrial Engineer – Improve factory processes to make manufacturing more efficient, cost-effective, and safe.
Logistics Coordinator – Plan and organize how goods are moved from suppliers to customers.
Manufacturing Engineer – Develop and improve processes that turn raw materials into finished products.
Mechatronics Technician – Work with machines and combine mechanics, electronics, and software to perform automated tasks.
Packaging Engineer – Design packaging that protects products while being sustainable and cost-effective.
Robotics Engineer – Design and build robots used in manufacturing and logistics (or other industries!).
Route Optimization Specialist – Use technology to plan the most efficient delivery routes for goods and services.
Supply Chain Analyst – Analyze data to help companies move products more efficiently.
Sustainability Manager – Help companies reduce waste and improve energy efficiency.
Welding Technician – Use advanced welding techniques to join metals in industries like aerospace, automotive, and construction.
If you’re interested in a career in advanced manufacturing and logistics, there are many ways to gain experience and build the skills needed for success. Taking courses in STEM, computer science, engineering, or business can help lay the foundation, while hands-on learning through career and technical education (CTE) programs—such as robotics, automation, or supply chain management—can provide real-world experience. Internships, apprenticeships, and job-shadowing opportunities with manufacturing companies, logistics firms, or distribution centers are great ways to explore potential career paths. Earning certifications in areas like CNC machining, welding, or logistics operations can help you develop in-demand skills and stand out to employers. For those looking to continue their education, degree programs in engineering, manufacturing technology, supply chain management, or business logistics offer pathways to leadership roles and specialized careers within the industry. No matter your interests, there’s a way to get involved in this fast-growing field and start building a future in advanced manufacturing and logistics.
Make IN Move
Make IN Move is a career exploration program by Conexus Indiana, designed to introduce young students to the AML industry. This program, designed for middle and high school students, helps teach, inspire, and motivate people like you to pursue a career in one of Indiana’s top advanced industries. Discover jobs in the tech world of advanced manufacturing and logistics, and explore possible job paths that are exciting, innovative, and creative.
Conexus Indiana
Conexus Indiana also offers a number of other entry points to the AML sector. Catapult Indiana enables high school students to explore real-world problems in AML through a 160-hour program of classroom and hands-on work. Conexus Student Industries offer students an opportunity to run a student-led business, empowering you with real-world stills, access to industry pros, and a chance to explore careers in a high-tech, high demand field.
Do you see yourself in advanced manufacturing and logistics?
From cars to campers, jet engines to life-saving medicines, popcorn to chocolate, Indiana companies make and move things that change the world.
The world of manufacturing and logistics is changing rapidly, with automation, AI, and sustainability shaping the future of these industries. This means more opportunities than ever before for those ready to embrace technology, problem-solving, and efficiency. If you like working with your hands, solving problems, or making sure things run smoothly, AML might be the perfect field for you. Indiana’s strong industry presence and numerous training programs make it easier than ever to get started. Whether you’re interested in engineering, robotics, logistics strategy, or supply chain management, there’s a place for you in AML!
Do you see yourself in a career that helps people live longer, healthier lives? Are you fascinated by science, medicine, or technology? Do you want to be part of the next breakthrough in healthcare or drug development? If so, a career in life sciences might be for you!
What are life sciences?
Life sciences are a dynamic and fast-growing field that focuses on understanding living organisms and using that knowledge to improve human health and well-being. Careers in this industry range from researching new medicines to developing medical devices, improving food safety, and advancing biotechnology. Whether it’s creating new treatments for diseases, engineering artificial organs, or analyzing genetics to prevent illnesses, life sciences professionals are shaping the future of healthcare and innovation.
Why choose a career in life sciences?
Indiana is a national leader in the life sciences industry, with more than 2,700 companies contributing over $77 billion to the state’s economy. Life sciences careers offer excellent job stability, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a direct impact on people’s lives. This field is also at the cutting edge of technology, incorporating artificial intelligence, data science, and robotics to revolutionize healthcare solutions. From working in laboratories to designing medical devices to improving agricultural biotechnology, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make a difference.
Career Paths in Life Sciences
The life sciences field spans multiple disciplines, providing various career opportunities. If you’re interested in biology, chemistry, technology, or healthcare, consider these exciting careers:
Biochemist – Study chemical processes and substances within living organisms to better understand biological functions and develop innovative solutions in medicine and agriculture.
Biomedical Engineer – Combine biology and engineering to design and develop things like medical devices, artificial organs, diagnostic tools, and other equipment and technologies that improve healthcare.
Bioinformatics Specialist– Use computer sciences and biology to analyze data, like genetic sequences, to understand diseases and develop treatments.
Biostatistician – Use math and statistics to study biological data, helping with medical research and public health programs.
Biotechnologist – Use living organisms to develop new products in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist – Conduct lab tests on blood, tissue, and other samples to help doctors diagnose and treat patients.
Clinical Research Coordinator– Organize and oversee medical studies, ensuring new treatments and medicines are tested safely and effectively.
Environmental Scientist – Study environmental problems like pollution and climate change to protect ecosystems and human health.
Forensic Scientist – Analyze biological samples for crime investigations and legal cases, for example fingerprints or DNA.
Genetic Counselor – Analyze genetic data to help patients understand inherited conditions and potential health risks.
Health Informatics Specialist – Combine healthcare and technology to organize and analyze medical data, improving patient care and decision-making.
Industrial Hygienist – Identifies and addresses workplace hazards to ensure a safe and healthy environment for workers.
Laboratory Technician – Prepares and performs experiments in labs to support scientific research and medical discoveries.
Life Science Analyst – Study trends and data in biology, biotechnology, and healthcare to guide companies and research projects.
Medical Laboratory Scientist – Perform tests to diagnose diseases and develop treatments.
Medical Science Liason – Act as a link between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers, sharing information about new medicines.
Microbiologist – Study bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms to improve public health and disease prevention.
Pharmaceutical Scientist – Research and develop new medications to treat various health conditions.
Quality Control Analyst – Test pharmaceutical and biotech products to ensure they meet safety and efficacy standards.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist – Ensure new medical products and drugs meet safety standards before reaching the public.
Tissue Engineer – Work on growing tissues and organs in laboratories for medical applications.
Toxicologist – Study the effects of chemicals on living organisms to determine if they are safe or harmful.
If you’re interested in exploring life sciences further, there are many ways to prepare for a career in this exciting field. Start by taking science courses such as biology, chemistry, and physics to build a strong foundation. Getting involved in STEM clubs, science fairs, or research programs can provide hands-on experience and deepen your understanding. Additionally, seeking internships or job-shadowing opportunities in laboratories, hospitals, or biotech companies can offer valuable real-world exposure. Consider exploring degree programs in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical studies to further your knowledge and career prospects.
BioCrossroads: Indiana’s Life Sciences Hub
BioCrossroads is Indiana’s leading initiative for life sciences innovation, connecting students, educators, and businesses to career opportunities in this growing industry. Whether you’re interested in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or agricultural biotechnology, BioCrossroads provides resources and networking opportunities to help students like you discover their path in life sciences.
The life sciences industry is rapidly evolving, with constant advancements in medicine, genetics, and technology. Careers in this field are both rewarding and impactful, offering the chance to improve lives and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries. Whether you’re drawn to research, engineering, or healthcare innovation, there’s a place for you in life sciences! Life sciences offer endless possibilities for those passionate about making a difference in health, technology, and sustainability. Could this be the career path for you?
Do you see yourself in a career that helps people? Do you thrive in a high-tech environment? Would you like to make an impact both in your community and in the world? If this sounds like you, a career in agbioscience could be for you!
What is agbioscience?
Agbioscience is where agriculture, science, and technology come together to solve some of the world’s biggest challenges – like feeding a growing population, developing sustainable farming methods, and creating new bio-based products. Whether it’s developing drought-resistant crops, using data to improve farm efficiency, or engineering new food products, careers in agbioscience are shaping the future of food and agriculture, in our state, across the country, and around the world. Agbioscience is about more than just farming. It also includes research and development, technology, engineering, business, and more.
Why explore a career in agbioscience?
The agbioscience industry contributes $69.6B to Indiana’s economy and employs over 147,000 people in the state. This sector is critical to both local and global economies, offering a wide range of career paths and countless opportunities for people who are passionate about science, sustainability, and problem-solving. Agbioscience careers play a major role in advancing food security, environmental conservation, and innovative farming techniques that help feed the world efficiently. From working in labs developing new plant varieties to using artificial intelligence for precision farming, there are countless ways to make an impact in this field. Many agbioscience careers offer strong job security, opportunities for advancement, and competitive salaries, making it an attractive industry.
Career Paths in Agbioscience
Agbioscience spans multiple disciplines, meaning there are a number of ways to make an impact in this field. If you’re interested in science, technology, or sustainability, here are a few agbioscience careers you might not have considered:
Agricultural Data Analyst – Use big data to help farmers make better, more informed decisions.
Agricultural Engineer – Investigate agriculture’s pressing issues and design solutions in areas such as power supply, machine efficiency and water/air pollution.
Agronomist – Use experimentation and research to improve the quality and production of crops for use in food, fuel and fiber.
Animal Nutritionist – Works with all types of animals to improve their health for increased reproductive and production potential.
Animal Scientist – Conduct research focused on the genetics, nutrition, growth, development, and reproduction of domestic livestock and companion animals.
Biochemist and Biophysicist – Study and conduct research on the chemical and physical properties of living things.
Bioinformatics Scientist – Develop and use computer technology to manage, analyze, and store large sets of biological data.
Climate Change Analyst – Study weather patterns to predict climate change, evaluate its potential impact and work to improve environmental practices.
Communications Manager – Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create and maintain your brand’s public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.
Entomologist – Knowledge of insects, how they impact our world, and how we impact theirs is crucial to our ecosystem.
Farm Manager – Oversees agricultural operations, from crop production to livestock management.
Food Scientist – Experts on what our food is made of, helping sustain our food supply in a way that makes it taste good, and be good for you.
Manufacturing Engineer – Use your prowess for efficiency and procedures to create more efficient production processes or practices.
Plant Geneticist – Research and study plants and crops in order to create new varieties and increase desirable traits.
Precision Agriculture Technician – Use drones and other advanced technology to optimize farming efficiency.
Robotics Technician – Use hands-on expertise in robotic equipment to improve and transform work, and our lives.
Soil Scientist – Explore and interpret soil characteristics to better understand Earth’s land and water resources.
Veterinary Technician – Exercise a combination of attention to detail and empathy to provide the best care for animals in a variety of settings.
Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist – Study animals, their behavior, and their relationship to their environments.
If you’re interested in exploring a career in agbioscience, there are many ways to gain experience and explore potential paths. Taking STEM courses like biology, chemistry, and environmental science can provide a strong foundation in scientific principles relevant to the field. Seeking internships or job-shadowing opportunities with agribusiness companies or research labs can offer hands-on experience and valuable industry connections. Exploring degree programs in agricultural science, food science, or environmental studies can help you develop specialized knowledge and skills for a future in agbioscience.
AgriNovus Field Atlas
Field Atlas is a career exploration program by AgriNovus Indiana designed to introduce students to opportunities in agbioscience. The program helps students like you connect their skills and interests to agbioscience careers they may not have considered.
In addition to their career profiles and employer spotlights, the Field Atlas Ambassador program is a great opportunity for college students to engage in agbioscience career discussions and explore the companies and organizations that are making an impact in the industry. Click here to learn more about Field Atlas and explore more agbioscience careers.
Do you see yourself in agbioscience?
The agbioscience industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology and a greater focus on sustainability. Careers in this field are becoming increasingly interdisciplinary, combining biology, chemistry, engineering, and data science to tackle the challenges of modern agriculture. With the rise of agricultural robotics, vertical farming, and alternative proteins, new opportunities continue to emerge for those interested in the future of food and sustainability. Agbioscience offers a world of possibilities for those passionate about making a difference in food, sustainability, and technology – there may be a career for you!
As educators, you play a pivotal role in shaping the future of your students. Many high school students today are uncertain about their career paths, often overwhelmed by the question, “What do I want to do with my life?” With so many career options available, it’s no surprise that students can feel paralyzed by indecision.
That’s where you come in. As a guide and mentor, you have the opportunity to help students explore career possibilities and see themselves in jobs they might not have considered. The See Yourself IN program was created to support this very process. Aimed specifically at high school students, this initiative provides a wealth of resources about jobs, industries, and career opportunities within Indiana, particularly in some of its most advanced sectors.
One of the best ways to help students engage in career conversations is through the See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit. This toolkit is designed to give you everything you need to facilitate discussions about careers and help students take the next step toward finding a fulfilling career path. From talking points to frequently asked questions and classroom activity ideas, this resource is a powerful tool for guiding students as they explore career opportunities in Indiana.
What is the See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit?
The See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit is a collection of downloadable resources specifically created for educators. It contains the following key materials:
Talking Points: This document helps you articulate the value of the See Yourself IN program and highlights key messaging about Indiana’s job market and industries.
Resource Guide: This guide is packed with links to podcasts, videos, and other career exploration tools that can help bring conversations and real-world insights into the classroom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): The FAQ section addresses common student inquiries about the See Yourself IN program and how it can provide value to students, giving you quick answers to guide your students.
With these resources, you can facilitate career-focused conversations with confidence, all while guiding students to a variety of external materials that will further deepen their understanding of career possibilities in the Hoosier state.
How you can Leverage the See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit for Career Conversations
As an educator, you have the power to influence the decisions your students make about their futures. Many of them are still figuring out what they want to do after high school, and with your guidance, they can begin to see the world of career possibilities that lie ahead.
The See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit can be an invaluable resource as you help students explore career paths, gain industry insights, and learn about the skills required for success. Here’s how you can leverage the toolkit to facilitate meaningful career conversations.
1. Support Career Path Exploration
The toolkit provides resources to help you guide students as they explore various career paths within Indiana’s most advanced industries. Many students are unaware of the breadth of career opportunities available to them in fields like technology, agbioscience, or advanced manufacturing.
The See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit can help you direct students to resources that allow them to dive deeper into these industries. By leveraging these resources, you can encourage students to consider how their interests and strengths might align with a variety of career options. For example, a student passionate about writing may not immediately see how they could fit into a tech career, but with the right guidance and resources, you can help them see the writing and communication roles that exist in technology companies.
2. Provide Real-World Industry Insights
One of the strengths of the See Yourself IN program is its collection of real-world industry insights. The See Yourself IN digital toolkit includes links to videos, podcasts, and articles that feature young professionals sharing their experiences and advice about working in different fields. These resources bring career exploration to life by showing students what careers in these industries really look like and the skills they require. By sharing these insights in the classroom, you can provide students with tangible examples of career pathways they might not have considered.
3. Highlight Success Stories
The stories shared by the See Yourself IN program provide real-life examples of how people from diverse backgrounds have succeeded in various industries, giving students the inspiration to pursue their own career goals.
The See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit helps you bring these stories into your classroom conversations. Sharing these success stories with students can help them visualize themselves in similar careers and spark discussions about the different pathways to success. You can also use these stories to address questions students might have about the steps they need to take to achieve their own career goals. This empowers you to clarify doubts and provide students with the confidence they need to take the next step in their career journey, regardless of what that next step might be.
The See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit is a powerful resource that can help you facilitate meaningful career conversations with your students. By using the toolkit’s talking points, resource guide, and FAQs, you can guide your students as they explore career opportunities, gain industry knowledge, and discover paths to success.
Empower your students to see themselves in careers they may not have considered and help them take confident steps toward their future. Start using the See Yourself IN Digital Toolkit today to inspire the next generation of professionals and leaders in Indiana!
Cameron Weber has always wanted to make a difference in the world. As a senior at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology studying biology, they hadn’t considered a career in agriculture. However, their perspective changed when they realized they could combine their passion for helping people with a career in agbiosciences—a field that impacts everyone, but is often overlooked.
Cameron’s journey began when they first entered college as a biomathematics major. Soon, they realized that biology better matched their interests and goals. This shift set them on a new path that would eventually lead them to discover the world of agriculture.
Like many high school students, Cameron was searching for a career that would be both fulfilling and purposeful. They wanted to help people and make a meaningful impact on the world. It wasn’t until an on-campus career fair and conversations with AgriNovus Indiana’s Field Atlas program that Cameron began to see agriculture as an exciting option. The Field Atlas program connects students with careers in the agbiosciences field and encourages them to think outside the box.
“Erica, the Field Atlas representative, really encouraged me to see myself in agriculture,” Cameron explains. They learned that agriculture wasn’t just about farming—it also includes technology, innovation, and science. Cameron quickly saw how agbiosciences could be just as impactful as other fields, like medicine or technology.
“Agriculture touches every single person on the planet,” says Cameron. “It affects our lives in ways many people don’t realize.” Whether it’s through plant science, technology, or sustainable practices, agriculture is the foundation for advancements in many industries.
Cameron became an ambassador for the Field Atlas program, helping other students discover how they could make a difference in agriculture. They explain how careers in agriculture are often tied to technology and innovation, using tools like drones to help feed people and improve global sustainability.
Cameron advises high school students to stay open-minded about their career options. “Don’t be afraid to explore something you’ve never considered,” they suggest. “Take risks, ask questions, and reach out to people who work in the field. The right career may be one you never expected.”
Through their story, Cameron shows that career paths are not always clear right away. It’s about exploring what excites you and discovering how you can contribute to the world in your own unique way. To learn more about how agriculture can make a difference, read Cameron’s full story here.
Brent Dulaney, a junior at IU Indianapolis, has parlayed his early interest in biomedical sciences into a health science degree program at IU Indianapolis and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation. Read more about his journey here.
Elevator pitches are just as important to your career readiness as a resume, cover letter and LinkedIn. Learn what they are, how they can help and how to use one in this informative piece from Ascend Indiana.
In this story from Hoosier Ag Today, we see how AgriNovus Indiana, the agbiosciences initiative of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), is educating and connecting college students to careers in agriculture through their Field Atlas platform. One Ball State University student recently on a Field Atlas farm tour, knows now how her chemistry degree can also prepare her for a career in agriculture.
In this episode of See Yourself IN, host Casey Harrison talks with Gabby Seal about the diverse opportunities in Indiana’s advanced industries, specifically the life sciences sector. Gabby shares her journey from a pre-med student at Indiana University to becoming an MSAT engineer at INCOG BioPharma Services. They dive into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her career path, the importance of networking, and advice for others navigating similar career journeys. Gabby also highlights the significance of aligning personal values with company values and maintaining hobbies for work-life balance.
5 Key Takeaways
Career Pivoting: Gabby Seal discusses her transition from pre-med to a career in the life sciences, highlighting the importance of being adaptable and exploring different pathways within the industry.
Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic played a crucial role in shaping Gabby’s career, as she contributed to the manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines at Catalent, underscoring the significance of Indiana’s role in global health.
Networking: Gabby emphasizes the value of networking and reaching out to professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, which helped her secure her position at INCOG BioPharma Services.
Company Culture: Researching and ensuring that a company’s core values align with one’s own is vital for job satisfaction and professional growth.
Work-Life Balance: Maintaining hobbies and interests outside of work can lead to unexpected networking opportunities and help sustain a healthy work-life balance.
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