When people think about the Month of May in Indiana, they usually think about fast cars, race day traditions and the excitement of the Indy 500.

But behind every lap is an entire team of people working across Indiana’s advanced industries to develop and test the technology, make and move things around the country (and the world), analyze data and make decisions that bring race day to life.

Modern racing depends on advanced industries — and many of the careers that help power race day are the same careers helping shape Indiana’s future every day.

Whether you’re interested in hands-on work, problem-solving, creativity or technology, there are many ways to be part of industries like these right here in Indiana.

Engineering

From designing vehicle systems to improving performance and safety, engineers help turn ideas into reality. Engineers across disciplines use creativity, problem-solving, and technology to design, test, and improve systems people rely on not just on race day, but every day.

Some careers in this field include:

Engineers often work with advanced technology, testing systems, solving problems, and helping improve performance and safety in fast-paced environments.

 

Advanced Manufacturing

Careers in advanced manufacturing combine hands-on work with advanced technologies and precisions tools that help drive innovation across Indiana’s economy. Advanced manufacturing professionals help build the parts, materials and systems used across industries including transportation, life sciences, aerospace and motorsports.

Some careers in this field include:

Indiana is a national leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics, with companies across the state helping design, produce and move products around the world.

 

Technology + Data

Technology plays a major role as its own sector as well as across Indiana’s advanced industries, from software development and cybersecurity to data analytics and artificial intelligence. In the context of racing, teams rely on software, analytics and real-time data to make decisions quickly and improve performance.

Some careers in this field include:

 

TechPoint’s Careers in Tech platform helps you uncover some of the top career paths and opportunities across Indiana’s technology sector. Visit techpoint.org/careersintech to learn more!

 

Logistics

Getting materials, tools and equipment where they need to go takes planning, coordination and teamwork.  Logistics and operations professionals help coordinate the movement of products, materials, and equipment across complex systems and supply chains.

Some careers in this field include:

Indiana’s advanced manufacturing and logistics industries play a major role in moving products and materials across the country and around the world.

 

Media + Communications

Race day also depends on creative professionals who help tell stories and connect with fans. Photographers, videographers, marketers and communications teams help bring events to life both in person and online.

Some careers in this field include:

These careers combine creativity, storytelling and technology — and opportunities exist across Indiana’s advanced industries.

 

Finding Your Path

There’s no single path into advanced industries careers. Explore more opportunities at SeeYourselfIN.com.

Whether your interests are in technology, engineering, manufacturing, logistics or creative work, Indiana’s advanced industries offer opportunities to explore careers that help power innovation every day — on and off the track.

Julia Hatfield didn’t always know she’d become an engineer designing custom implants that change lives. What she did know was that she loved problem-solving, math, and science—and that curiosity led her to a career in one of Indiana’s fastest-growing advanced industries. 

In this conversation, Julia shares how she found her path, why Indiana is the ideal place to build a future, and offers advice for Gen Z students starting to think about their own careers. 

 

Julia, take us back. How did your interest in life sciences and engineering begin?

In high school, I took an anatomy class and discovered how much I loved learning about the human body. At the same time, I already knew I enjoyed math and science, and I’ve always loved problem-solving. Putting all of that together, biomedical engineering felt like the right direction; it allowed me to innovate in ways that could truly help people.

 

What made you choose the University of Toledo for college? 

 Their bioengineering program required three co-ops. That was huge for me because it gave me the chance to get into the field, not just sit in a classroom. I wanted to see how engineering worked in real life, and those internships had a significant impact on my career. 

 

How did you first connect with Zimmer Biomet? 

 I actually met them at a career fair in Toledo. I ended up doing two internships with them here in Indiana—one focused on shoulder implants, and the other on research using advanced microscopes to study how materials fail. Those experiences showed me how broad and exciting this work could be. 

 

Tell us about your current role. 

 I’m a development engineer on the Patient-Matched Implants team at Zimmer Biomet. That means I design implants that are custom-made for individual patients, usually for shoulders. A patient undergoes a CT scan, and we turn it into a 3D model. Then, I design an implant that fits their exact needs. It’s highly specialized, and every case is unique. 

Currently, I’m working on approximately 60 different cases simultaneously, making for a fast-paced environment. However, it’s incredible to know that something I design could alleviate someone’s pain and restore their mobility. 

 

What excites you about your work? 

For me, it’s seeing the direct impact on patients. I’ve been able to attend surgeries and watch implants I designed being used. It’s surreal. And it’s not just local — some of the implants I’ve worked on have gone to patients as far away as Japan. Knowing my work reaches people all over the world is really motivating. 

 

Looking back, did you always know you’d be on this path? 

Not at all. In high school, I didn’t have a detailed plan. I just followed my interests, took advantage of opportunities like internships, and let things fall into place. That’s something I’d want Gen Z students to know: you don’t have to have it all figured out. What matters is trying things, learning what excites you, and being open to change. 

 

What advice would you give to students exploring Indiana’s advanced industries? 

Surround yourself with goal-oriented people—they’ll motivate you. Don’t be afraid of mistakes. They’re inevitable, but they help you grow. Finally, get hands-on experience through internships, co-ops, or shadowing. Even if you don’t love it, you’ll learn what direction you do want to take. 

 

Why Indiana? What keeps you here? 

 Indiana is the hub for advanced industries — especially life sciences. Warsaw is the orthopedic capital of the world. For someone like me who wants to innovate, collaborate with surgeons, and make a real impact, this is the place to be. 

 

Watch Julia’s full video conversation here!

 

Julia Hatfield’s story shows that pathways into Indiana’s advanced industries don’t require a perfect plan—just curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to try. Her story is also an important reminder that you can build a career that matters right here in Indiana. Explore opportunities and discover your path through See Yourself IN! 

Ashley Jeffirs didn’t start college knowing exactly where she wanted to end up. But through curiosity, adaptability, and hands-on experience, she found her passion in Indiana’s advanced industries. Today, she’s a manufacturing engineer at Zimmer Biomet, working in a foundry where molten metal becomes life-saving implants.

Here’s her story in her own words.

 

Ashley, did you always know you wanted to be an engineer? 

Not at all. In high school, I knew I loved math and science, but I wasn’t sure how that would translate into a career. I initially tried biomedical engineering, but I quickly realized the medical side wasn’t for me. That’s when I shifted to mechanical engineering—and that’s where everything clicked.

 

How did you connect with Zimmer Biomet? 

I first learned about them through a career fair at Trine University. I ended up landing an internship in extremities manufacturing. That experience provided me with hands-on exposure to what engineering looks like in the real world, and it really helped me figure out what I wanted to do after graduation.

 

What do you do today? 

I’m a manufacturing engineer in Zimmer Biomet’s foundry. Essentially, we create wax patterns, build ceramic molds, and then pour molten metal at approximately 3,000 degrees to produce implants. Instead of producing one part at a time, we can make 20 in a single pour. It’s fast, intense, and really rewarding to see the process from start to finish.

 

What is the coolest part of your job? 

Honestly, I never thought I’d fall in love with the foundry. But the first time I worked with metal, I knew this was where I belonged. Now, I get to transform raw materials into implants that restore mobility and improve lives. That’s an incredible feeling.

 

You’ve already made some impressive contributions. Can you share one? 

One of the biggest was redesigning a tool so it lasted a full year instead of just three weeks. That was huge for efficiency. I also led a scrap reduction project that saved the company about $383,000. But honestly, what excites me most isn’t just the numbers, it’s collaborating with operators on the floor.

 

You were recently named to the Conexus Indiana Rising 30 class. What does that recognition mean to you? 

It was an incredible honor. To me, it’s not just about the award, it’s about showing what’s possible when you pursue opportunities in Indiana’s advanced industries. Being recognized alongside so many talented young professionals reminds me that young people, especially young women, have the power to shape the future of these industries. It motivates me to keep pushing, innovating, and supporting the next generation that will come after me.

 

You shared that you’re incredibly passionate about mentorship, specifically supporting other women and interns at Zimmer Biomet. Why is this so important to you? 

Mentorship is huge. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who guided me, challenged me, and helped me see what I was capable of. That’s why I’m passionate about paying it forward. Advanced industries can feel intimidating, especially for women, but I want to be the kind of mentor who says, “You belong here, and your voice matters.” For me, it’s about opening doors, building confidence, and making sure the next generation of women feels supported and empowered to lead.

 

What advice would you give to others who are trying to figure out their futures? 

Don’t stress if you don’t have it all figured out right now. I didn’t either. Be adaptable, because your path will change, and sometimes those detours lead to the best opportunities. Find balance and make space for yourself outside of school or work, because you can’t pour from an empty cup. And don’t be afraid to use your voice. Even if you’re the youngest in the room, your perspective is valuable and can spark real change.

 

What makes Indiana the right place to launch and grow your career?

You don’t have to leave Indiana to do meaningful work. There are opportunities here to innovate, solve real-world problems, and build careers that positively impact lives. That’s what keeps me here—and why I’m excited about the future.

 

Watch Ashley’s full video conversation here!

 

Ashley Jeffirs’ journey shows Gen Z that you don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Sometimes, the right pathway reveals itself when you’re willing to try, adapt, and discover where you truly belong—and Indiana’s advanced industries are the perfect place to start. Explore opportunities and discover your path through See Yourself IN! 

The 2025 See Yourself IN High School Summit brought together hundreds of high school students, educators, and industry leaders for a day designed to spark possibility and illuminate real pathways into Indiana’s advanced industries. From the moment students arrived at the AMP at 16 Tech on November 13, the energy was unmistakable: curiosity, excitement, and a genuine eagerness to explore what’s possible for their futures.

Click here to view photos from this year’s event!

 

Learning from the Leaders Who Shape Indiana’s Economy

We kicked off the 2025 See Yourself IN Summit with an opening from Kristen Lampkin and Latoya Botteron of CICP, who encouraged students to think boldly about their futures and to go into this day with an open mind of what is out there in Indiana.

We then welcomed Olivia West, in-game host for the Indiana Fever and Indiana Pacers, to the stage, where she shared an inspiring keynote about the importance of values – our GPS system – and how those values lead us toward decisions that affect our future. She inspired all of us to think big and to stay curious, both at the summit and in life.

Across the Summit, speakers from CICP’s branded initiatives and partners — TechPoint, AgriNovus, BioCrossroads, Conexus Indiana, and Ascend Indiana — shared insights into the future of work and the incredible opportunities emerging in technology, life sciences, agbiosciences, advanced manufacturing and logistics, and beyond. They were also able to share opportunities for students to get plugged in and get a jumpstart on their careers, whatever that path may be.

The morning session ended with two valuable panel discussions that exposed students to real stories of success and validation that it’s okay to not know your next step. We first welcomed a group of current students who are tied to CICP’s various talent programs, including Field Atlas, Xtern, and the Modern Apprenticeship Program (MAP). These individuals – Mackensi Schneider, Megan Van Dyke, and Rex Cole – were joined by AgriNovus Indiana Career Success Manager Karis Witte to discuss their respective programs as well as their advice for students who may be interested in following in their footsteps.

Related: Watch the Pathways to Jobs and Careers panel on demand here.

We then transitioned to a panel of early-in-career professionals who have been able to make an impact and find success (and their voice) in various advanced industry careers. Susie Cox, an Automation Leader at Corteva Agriscience, Katie Murphy, a Manufacturing Engineer at Arcamed, and Lilia Sanchez, a Postdoctoral Fellow at Indiana Biosciences Research Institute joined moderator Emily Kitterman, Director of Careers in Tech at TechPoint on the stage. These individuals were able to share advice to students about finding their path and ways to find success in the advanced industries, as well as offered some perspective on what the “advanced industries” really mean and why they are so important, not just to our state but to our world.

Watch the Outstanding Opportunities: Jobs in Indiana’s Advanced Industries panel on demand here.

 

Hands-On Exploration: Where Careers Come to Life

Beyond the stage, the Summit’s industry activations transformed career exploration into something students could touch, test, and experience. From learning about life sciences through VR to extracting strawberry DNA, coding alongside tech mentors to learning about how to use AI, students had a chance to see these advanced industries come to life in very tangible ways. A special thanks to the following groups who volunteered their time and talent to provide these hands-on demos to our students:

Many students were eager to share that this was their favorite part of the day, the moment careers felt tangible, accessible, and exciting.

In addition to these hands-on activities, we had several partners who set up booths at the AMP where students could learn about opportunities to take the next step. Butler University’s Founder’s College, IU Indianapolis, Purdue University, Ivy Tech, and each of our branded initiatives – Ascend Indiana, AgriNovus Indiana, BioCrossroads, Conexus Indiana, and TechPoint were able to share opportunities for our high school students to get plugged in and turn today’s excitement into an actionable step forward.

 

Student Takeaways and Outcomes

Throughout the day, one message came through clearly: There is a place for every student to see themselves IN Indiana’s innovation economy.

As students got their ice cream and headed home for the day, they left with an idea of their values, a new awareness of growing career paths and opportunities, direct connections to mentors, employers, and continuing education, and insights into the skills needed for today’s (and tomorrow’s) jobs.

Perhaps most importantly, they left with a greater understanding that their strengths, interests, and values can help shape their decision-making and influence their path to a fulfilling career, right here in Indiana.

The learning doesn’t stop when the Summit ends. Students, families, and educators can continue exploring resources, career pathways, and videos throughout the year at SeeYourselfIN.com.

 

A Community Coming Together for Students

None of this would have been possible without our incredible network of partners:

This collective effort is what makes the See Yourself IN Summit so powerful. It represents the very best of Indiana’s commitment to developing its future talent.

 

 

For Bryce Maxwell, ‘25, the decision to attend Indiana State University was rooted in family and practicality. Born and raised in Terre Haute, Maxwell chose to pursue a degree from Indiana State because of stories he had heard from family members.

“My mom, my dad, and my older brother all went to Indiana State,” he shares. “I had three great examples of success stories, so I thought I’d stay in my hometown. The tuition was great, and I knew Indiana State was a nice school. I could find my way and figure out what I wanted to do.”

Finding that way, however, took time. Maxwell entered college unsure of his future career plans, initially majoring in finance. “I knew I liked numbers, so I thought, ‘What do numbers go into? Finance,’” he says. It wasn’t until he discovered the business analytics minor—and the mentorship of Dr. Concetta DePaolo—that his path began to take shape.

“I was sitting in her class one day and realized I enjoyed it a lot more than my finance classes,” he recalls. “She showed me how analytics overlapped with supply chain, and that same day, I switched my major.”

Switching majors late could have been challenging, but Maxwell found the supply chain management program to be a welcoming, supportive environment. He quickly built connections with faculty and peers, and through collaborative projects, he gained confidence that he had made the right decision.

“I had no idea what supply chain management was,” he admits. “But supply chain management is in every business. It follows products through the whole production line, and there’s so much you can do.”

When asked what he enjoys most about his major, Maxwell struggles to pick just one thing. “I really enjoy all of it. There are so many parts to supply chain management that once you find a part you like, you can have a completely different experience than someone else. There are so many opportunities and routes you can go down.”

Mentorship played a pivotal role in Maxwell’s Sycamore journey. He credits Dr. DePaolo for her guidance and support, recalling how she spent an hour with him discussing career paths and helping him make the switch from finance to supply chain management. “My favorite class was solving with Excel sheets – taking real-world situations and optimizing them, saving companies money,” he says.

That academic preparation paid off during an internship at Cummins, Inc., in Columbus, Indiana. At Cummins, a global leader in power generation products, Maxwell worked in supply chain planning and analytics – helping set up a new engine line and ensuring all parts were brought in properly. That internship experience led to a full-time job offer after graduation in December.

Maxwell credits Indiana State’s curriculum for preparing him well, especially with its emphasis on analytics and real-world problem-solving. “I felt like from day one, I had a better grasp on what we were doing,” he says. “The real-world examples we worked on in class taught me to think quickly, problem-solve, and adapt – skills that are crucial in supply chain.”

Outside his major, Maxwell found community through club volleyball, playing all four years and forming friendships across the University. “Joining that club took up a lot of time, but it was definitely worth it. I made friends I never would have met otherwise,” he shares.

He describes Indiana State as a community that truly invests in its students’ success – both during college and beyond. His advice to future Sycamores is simple: take advantage of every opportunity.

“Attend networking events, career fairs, and speaker sessions,” he says. “Even if you never talk to someone again, you never know where a conversation might lead. Build your network, build your skills, and be open to learning.”

As Maxwell prepares to graduate and begin his career at Cummins, he reflects with gratitude for the mentors, friendships, and experiences that shaped his Sycamore journey at Indiana State.

“Indiana State cares a lot about its students. Professors give you countless opportunities to learn and grow. They want you to leave here ready to succeed.”

 

This story was originally published by Indiana State University. Click here to read the original story!

If you don’t know what you want to do when you grow up, that’s okay. Many high school students don’t. Your future career doesn’t have to be decided right now. In fact, now is the perfect time to explore different options and opportunities that are out there. But, did you know the things you already enjoy doing every day can give you clues about careers you might thrive in?

Your hobbies and interests aren’t just activities. They’re signals about your strengths, your personality, and the environments where you might feel confident and excited. If you pay attention to what naturally interests you, you can start to See Yourself IN careers that fit.

Here are three questions to help you explore your interests and visualize how those connect to real-world opportunities across Indiana’s advanced industries.

 

1. What do I enjoy doing when no one is telling me what to do?

When you have free time, what do you choose to do? Those interests offer insight into what kinds of work might keep you motivated long-term.

If you enjoy…

Your free-time choices don’t define your career, but they do show where your natural interests live.

 

2. What kinds of problems do you like to solve?

Every job is basically a different type of problem-solving. Understanding the type you enjoy can point you toward fields where you’ll feel energized instead of drained.

If you like…

How you solve problems can be just as important as a specific major or job title.

3. What skills do I naturally use without thinking about it?

These are the strengths everyone else sees in you, the things you do well without trying. They are huge career clues.

If you naturally…

Strengths aren’t always academic.  Sometimes career clues come from your personality, so pay attention to what you are good at and what other people are affirming you for.

Ready to start exploring?

Your hobbies won’t tell you exactly what to become, but they will help you understand yourself better. And when you know yourself, it’s easier to see where you might fit in Indiana’s growing opportunities, whether it’s life sciences, agbiosciences, tech, advanced manufacturing and logistics, or beyond.

From Carmel High School to Purdue University to Allison Transmission, Vincent Mai’s journey shows how curiosity and initiative can lead to a thriving career in Indiana’s advanced industries. 

 

Vincent, what first got you interested in engineering? 

 In high school, I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do. However, robotics was the turning point—it gave me the confidence to pursue a career in engineering. 

 

What classes helped shape your career path? 

 Definitely the Project Lead the Way courses. Those intro engineering classes, digital electronics, and engineering principles showed me the basics. They provided me with a solid foundation for pursuing a STEM career in Indiana. 

 

How did you land your first role with Allison Transmission? 

Funny enough, Allison was a sponsor of my high school robotics team. Later, at Purdue’s Industrial Roundtable, I reconnected with them. That led to two internships—one in 2017 and one in 2018. After that second internship, I knew I wanted to be there full-time. 

 

What do you do today as a Control Systems Engineer? 

The easiest way to describe it is a software engineer with extra responsibilities. Some days I’m coding and designing; other days I’m out on test trucks or public roads testing the systems we’ve built. It’s a great mix of analysis, software development, and hands-on application. 

 

What skills have been most valuable in your career? 

 Communication is huge. When I’m working with peers, they want technical detail. But leaders often just want the big picture. Knowing how to adapt your communication style is essential in advanced industries. 

 

What lessons would you share with students or young professionals exploring STEM careers in Indiana? 

I’d share three things: 

  1. Be open-minded. Don’t lock yourself into one idea too early. 
  1. Be flexible. Life will throw curveballs—be willing to adjust. 
  1. Take initiative. Speak up about your interests so people can help you grow. 

 

Looking back, what stands out most about your journey? 

That you don’t need to have it all figured out. I thought I’d go into aerospace or maybe medical technology. Instead, I found a career in advanced manufacturing and automotive right here in Indiana—and I love it. 

 

If you love problem-solving, design, and teamwork, manufacturing and advanced industries in Indiana might be the perfect fit for you. Explore opportunities and discover your path through See Yourself IN! 

When you’re in high school, it can feel like everyone is asking the same big question: “What’s next?” But the truth is—you don’t need to have all the answers yet. What you do need is a chance to see what’s out there, to start imagining what’s possible, and to begin connecting your interests to future opportunities.

That’s exactly what the See Yourself IN High School Summit is all about. On November 13, 2025, students from across Indiana will come together for a one-day event designed to spark curiosity and open doors. You’ll get a chance to hear from people who were recently in your shoes, explore industries you may not have thought about before, and begin to picture where your future might take you.

Here are seven reasons you’ll want to be part of it:

1. Discover careers you didn’t know existed

There are so many career options beyond the ones you usually hear about. At the Summit, you’ll get to see some of Indiana’s fastest-growing industries in action:

Each of these fields is full of opportunities for people with all kinds of strengths – whether you like problem-solving, being creative, working with your hands, or exploring new ideas.

 

2. Hear from people who were once in your shoes

In the morning, the Summit will feature panels with current students and young professionals in Indiana who are now building careers in these industries. They’ll share their journeys—what they liked in high school, how they explored their interests, and what led them to where they are today.

You’ll get to hear real stories, not just polished success highlights, and ask questions that could help lead you to your next step. These conversations will show that career paths are rarely straight lines, and that exploring your options in high school is a valuable first step.

 

3. Get a taste of different industries

In addition to panel discussions, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn through hands-on demos and activities that give you a simple, hands-on way to learn what these industries are all about. Think of it as “test driving” different fields—you’ll get just enough to spark curiosity without needing to know all the details. Each experience is designed to give you a small glimpse into what careers in that field could look like.

 

4. See Indiana in a new light

It’s easy to think that the most exciting careers are in big cities far away. But the truth is, Indiana is full of innovation and opportunity. Right here at home, people are working on things that impact not just our state, but the entire world.

The Summit will help you realize that whether your interests lean toward science or tech, computers to hands-on work, there’s a place for you in Indiana’s future. You don’t have to go far to make a big impact—you can start right here.

 

5. Explore different paths after high school

There isn’t just one path forward after graduation, and the Summit helps you explore the different options that are out there. Some careers do require a four-year degree, but many others start with apprenticeships, certifications, or even direct-to-work opportunities where you continue learning on the job.

The industries represented at the Summit value all kinds of training and education. That means no matter what path you choose, there are ways to connect your strengths to a career. High school is the perfect time to explore those options and think about what fits you best.

 

6. Get inspired by real stories

Throughout the day, you’ll hear inspiring stories from people who turned their everyday interests into careers. Maybe they grew up with a love for helping others and now work in agbiosciences, helping to feed our planet. Maybe they loved tinkering with computers and now work in tech. Maybe they liked their science classes and found their way into life sciences – in a career that didn’t require med school. Or maybe they enjoyed learning how things are made and moved around the world and now thrive in a career in logistics.

These stories prove that your unique passions and skills can lead to real opportunities—and that Indiana has a place for your talents.

 

7. It’s all about YOU!

The See Yourself IN High School Summit is designed with high school students in mind. You don’t need to know your career goals or even have a plan yet. The goal of the day is simple: to give you exposure, spark your curiosity, and help you start asking new questions about your future.

You’ll leave with more ideas than you came with, and hopefully with a clearer picture of the many directions your next step could take.

 

Ready to See Yourself IN?

The See Yourself IN High School Summit isn’t a career fair – it’s a day of meaningful exploration. It’s about discovering new possibilities, meeting people who have walked the path before you, and seeing how your own interests could connect to Indiana’s future.

So, whether you’re curious about a specific industry or are simply figuring out what comes next, the Summit is for you. Join us on November 13, 2025, and take the first step toward seeing yourself in a whole new way.

This summer, six interns gained hand-on-experience across three of CICP’s initiatives; Ascend Indiana, TechPoint, and CICP itself. These opportunities offered enriching “foot in the door” opportunities for young professionals eager to explore Indiana’s advanced industries.

Among them was Kendall Troy, a second-year student at Indiana University Indianapolis, who participated in TechPoint’s Externship Program. Anastasia Cook, a soon-to-be junior at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Jackson Stone, an incoming senior at Purdue University, Dev Patel, who is pursuing his Master of Science in computer science at Indiana University and Ahmet Arslan, an incoming junior at Purdue University, interned across various departments and teams with Ascend Indiana, while Lucy Furqueron, a rising junior at Texas Christian University joined the CICP communications team as an intern.

Hands-on Experience:

Lucy Furqueron, CICP

Across all departments, interns were empowered to explore, create, and contribute in significant ways to their teams. These internships are designed to help young, aspiring professionals develop useful, real-world experience, aiming to build a foundation of success and begin shaping their professional lives. Many interns reflected on how applying classroom knowledge to their position brought clarity and greater direction to potential career goals.

“I have really enjoyed immersing myself within a communications department” said Lucy Furqueron (CICP). “You learn so much from being on the ground able to see and experience the realities of what the job looks like and what you might be doing in your own career eventually.”

Ahmet Arslan, Ascend Indiana

Ahmet Arslan (Ascend Indiana), said “There was a strong sense of shared ownership, and the focus was entirely on finding solutions together. It was during this time that I truly saw Ascend’s supportive and inclusive culture in action.”

 

 

 

Engage with Networking Opportunities:

Kendall Troy, TechPoint

Internships also provide students with valuable networking opportunities. Events offered throughout internship programs become an opportunity to help create connections and learn more about the industry. 

“A highlight of my internship has been going to all of the events TechPoint has put on and being able to take events photos for them.” said Kendall Troy (TechPoint). “TechPoint has many community events that involve networking within the Indianapolis tech community. Through these events, I’ve been given the opportunity to meet many founders, CEO’s, and employees in the Indiana tech sector and I feel as if I’ve been able to grow my community and tech network in the Indianapolis area.”

Jackson Stone, Ascend Indiana

Jackson Stone (Ascend Indiana) said “Being in product and project management requires a lot of communication between multiple verticals, which excited me because I get to meet a lot of different people and work with them to improve our ideas.”

Growing your Skillset:

Anastasia Cook, Ascend Indiana

A notable aspect of an internship with CICP and its initiatives is the ability for interns to take on their own projects and work.  Interns are entrusted with tasks and projects that encourage ownership and deeper learning, skills that are essential for any industry

Anastatia Cook (Ascend Indiana) said “I’m so glad I had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, acting as a “Jack of all Trades”. I was involved in everything from research and competitor analysis to writing user stories and conducting QA testing.”

Dev Patel, Ascend Indiana

“A lesson I’ve learned during my internship is the power of taking ownership early and approaching challenges with a problem-solving mindset.” Said Dev Patel (Ascend Indiana). “Success in fast-paced, technical environments doesn’t come from having all the answers, it comes from being curious, collaborative, and willing to own and solve hard problems.”

These stories and CICP’s continued commitment to providing internship experiences and programs is a testament to their investment in not only the individual, but the next generation of Indiana’s workforce. Through real-world experiences and professional and personal growth these students are taking steps towards meaningful, motivated careers.

If you want more information on Indiana’s advanced industries, as well as how you can get involved with Indiana’s next generation of leaders, be sure to click the link below.

See Yourself IN

From biology major to purpose-driven professional, Lucy Wehlage recently stopped by See Yourself IN to share how she built a career she loves in Indianapolis—and what advice she has for others looking to start strong. 

Q: Tell us a little about your background. What did you study, and how did you get started in your career?
Lucy: I grew up in a family surrounded by healthcare, so I thought I might follow in their footsteps. I studied biology in college and loved science, especially organic chemistry and physics. I loved the mindset of solving problems and thinking critically. However, by my junior year, I realized I didn’t want to attend graduate school. I wanted to go straight into the workforce. 

That’s when I discovered the Orr Fellowship, and it felt like this starry, bright opportunity—perfect for someone who’s driven but still figuring out exactly what they want to do. It provided me with a community, a career, and opportunities for continued learning, all right here in Indianapolis. That’s how I got connected to The Heritage Group. 

Q: What was it about science that always drew you in? 
Lucy: It always felt like solving a puzzle—sometimes complicated, sometimes unclear—but there was always a solution. I’ve carried that mindset into my work today.

Q: You’ve talked about your love of science and people. How do you blend those two in your current role?
Lucy: In high school and college, I threw myself into clubs and organizations where teamwork and shared purpose created powerful, lasting connections. I’ve always really valued relationships and building community. Now, I’m able to use those people skills alongside the problem-solving skills I developed through science. That combination is what makes me successful and my work so fulfilling.

Q: What do you do now at The Heritage Group?
Lucy: I’m the Strategic Partnerships and Experiences Lead. That means I drive our corporate philanthropy and social impact initiatives. At The Heritage Group, we think about philanthropy as more than just writing checks—we ask how we can use our time and our talent, not just our treasure, to benefit our community. 

We focus on six main areas: food security, housing, workforce development, STEM education, families, and sustainability. My role is to establish purposeful partnerships that align with these pillars and to help engage our employees in meaningful community work. 

Q: Can you give an example of a project that excites you?
Lucy: Absolutely—Kids Science Camp is my favorite. It’s a three-day camp for our employees’ children, where we teach hands-on science tied to our work at The Heritage Group—everything from asphalt to chemicals to environmental sustainability. 

We’re not just giving our employees something valuable for their families; we’re also helping kids connect what their parents do to the real world. It’s incredible to see a child realize, “Oh! That’s what Mom or Dad was talking about.” Science becomes something tangible, exciting, and essential. 

Q: What makes STEM education so important to you—and to Indiana’s future?
Lucy: We’re at a moment in Indiana where hard tech is booming, and we need strong STEM education to keep that momentum. It’s not just about awareness—it’s about building a talent pipeline for Indiana’s advanced industries. The more we can expose students to what STEM looks like in real life, the stronger our workforce and economy will be.

Q: Where does your passion for STEM come from?
Lucy: STEM has always been part of my family. My parents worked in healthcare, and I grew up hearing about their work at the dinner table. They also sent me to science camps when I was young, and I remember feeling that spark—that aha moment when you realize science is everywhere. It’s creative, it’s grounded, and it’s powerful. And now I get to work at a company that lives and breathes STEM every day.

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting in their career?
Lucy: Three things have made a big difference for me: 

Organization – I treat it like a superpower. I make to-do lists, plan backwards from deadlines, and always come to meetings with a clear agenda. Being organized helps me balance multiple projects without feeling overwhelmed. 

Communication – That means asking good questions and explaining your ideas clearly, but it also means listening. Active, empathetic listening has helped me build stronger relationships and become a better teammate. 

Time Management – I’m still working on this every day. When I have a long project, like Kids Science Camp, which takes about eight months, I break it into chunks. I also use project plans to track progress, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. 

Q: What’s one lesson that’s stuck with you?
Lucy: Focus on what you can control. Early in my career, I spent a lot of energy worrying about things outside of my control—how others responded, long-term outcomes, and organizational shifts. Now I focus on my actions, my attitude, and my effort. That mindset shift made me more confident and resilient.

Q: What’s the culture like at The Heritage Group, and what’s kept you there?
Lucy: I’ve been here since I joined through the Orr Fellowship, and I’ve stayed because it’s a place that bets on people. I’ve always felt trusted and supported, even when I was taking risks or learning something new. There’s a fundamental belief in personal growth and a culture of feedback that helps you get better.

Q: Final question—what would you say to someone trying to figure out where to begin?
Lucy: Start with what you’re good at, what you enjoy, and where you want to make an impact. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just need to be open, ask questions, and say yes to opportunities that stretch you. That’s how I found a career I love—and I never saw it coming. 

If you have a passion for science, math, or problem-solving, Indiana’s advanced industries may have a job for you. Discover tools, stories, and opportunities to help you take the next step at See Yourself IN. 

Looking for careers in Indiana’s advanced industries?
Want to learn more about building your future in Indiana’s advanced industries? Explore more career stories and resources at See Yourself IN.