This article was originally published by TechPoint. Click here to read the original article.
On June 5, TechPoint welcomed the 2026 Xtern cohort for its first programming weekend of the summer at the Dallara Experience Hub in Speedway. Throughout the day, Xterns participated in professional development workshops, peer networking activities, industry discussions and workplace readiness sessions designed to help them make the most of their summer internships.
Welcoming Remarks from TechPoint CEO and President
The morning began with remarks from TechPoint’s CEO and president, Eric Christopher, who shared his journey growing up in Richmond, IN as the son of a blue-collar worker to becoming a first-generation student at Indiana University, co-founding Zylo, and ultimately leading TechPoint.
Reflecting on his experiences as a builder and entrepreneur, Eric spoke about the value of creating opportunities through technology and the impact that innovation can have on Indiana’s economy. He emphasized that technology enables individuals to not only build successful businesses but also to create jobs and lasting value within their communities.
When asked about Gen Z’s greatest strengths and challenges, he pointed to artificial intelligence as both. While AI presents opportunities for innovation and growth, he noted that gaining meaningful work experience remains one of the biggest hurdles for recent graduates.
“Xtern is built to give you that,” he told attendees.
Understanding Indiana’s Industry Landscape
Sally Reasoner, vice president of talent strategy at TechPoint, provided an overview of Indiana’s evolving technology and innovation landscape while sharing the history of the Xtern program.
Launched in 2014 with just five participating companies, Xtern was created to help employers address recruitment challenges by showcasing not only career opportunities, but also the advantages of living and working in Indiana.
Over the past 13 years, the program has expanded far beyond its original focus on software development. Today Xtern opportunities span industries including engineering, marketing, healthcare, manufacturing, finance and aviation.
Industry Leaders Discuss the Future of AI
A panel featuring industry leaders Mike Cronin (SEP), Scott Sobczak (V2X), Kristi Steppe (IU Health), and Troy Kelley (E-gineering Inc.) explored the growing role of artificial intelligence within their respective industries.
The discussion addressed both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with AI adoption. Panelist shared perspectives on how AI is improving efficiency, supporting decision-making and helping organizations better serve customers and communities.
Cronin addressed concerns about AI replacing technical talent, noting that the demand for developers continues to remain strong. Steppe highlighted how AI is helping healthcare organizations reduce harm events through enhanced monitoring and support systems.
When discussing responsible AI use, panelists emphasized several key themes: protecting sensitive information, maintaining ethical accountability, and ensuring that technology enhances, not replaces, human creativity and judgement.
A recurring message throughout the discussion was the importance of continuous learning.
“Don’t be afraid to jump into the unknown as long as you’re willing to learn,” Sobczak advised.
Navigating the Human Side of Work
Andi Hines-Logemann of Elevate Ventures led a session focused on managing stress and micro-stress while transitioning into the workforce.
She encouraged Xterns to view confidence as a skill that can be developed over time rather than as a fixed trait. One of the sessions central messages was that curiosity is more valuable than perfection, especially early in a career.
As interns navigate new responsibilities and unfamiliar environments, Hines-Logemann reminded attendees that employers do not expect them to know everything. Instead, asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating a willingness to learn are often the strongest indicators of future success.
Body Working – Listening with Your Eyes
Mitch Isaacs of Shafer Leadership Academy introduced Xterns to the role body language plays in professional interactions and networking.
Describing body language as “an outward reflection of inward reality,” Isaacs challenged participants to think about how their posture, presence, and nonverbal cues influence the way others perceive the. He encouraged attended to adopt a balance approach- confident and approachable without appearing overly closed or overly assertive.
The session concluded with hand-on practice ahead of the evening networking reception.
Putting Learning into Practice
The day concluded with a networking happy hour, where Xterns had the opportunity to connect with employers, tour the Dallara Factory, and experience the Racing SIM Garage.
By the end of the evening, many participants were already applying the lessons they had learned throughout the day: approaching conversations with greater confidence, asking thoughtful questions, and building meaningful professional connections.
As the summer continues, Xterns will participate in additional programming designed to support their professional growth while strengthening Indiana’s next generation of talent.
Follow TechPoint’s social channels to see what Xterns are accomplishing this summer, and stay tuned for the next programming weekend June 26-27.
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:
Mechanical Engineer
Industrial Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Systems Engineer
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:
CNC Machinist
Automation Technician
Quality Engineer
Robotics Technician
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:
Software Developer
Data Analyst
Cybersecurity Specialist
Data Scientist
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:
Supply Chain Specialist
Logistics Coordinator
Operations Manager
Transportation Analyst
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:
Videographer
Graphic Designer
Social Media Manager
Communications Specialist
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.
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.
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!
When Julia Hatfield signed up for high school anatomy, she thought it would just be another science class. Instead, it sparked a journey that led her to a career designing life-saving implants at one of Indiana’s most innovative companies.
Today, Julia works as a development engineer at Zimmer Biomet in Warsaw, Indiana—known worldwide as the orthopedic capital of the world. Her job? Designing patient-matched implants that restore mobility and reduce pain for people facing cancer, fractures, and other conditions that standard implants can’t fix.
“For me, it’s never just about the engineering. It’s about giving someone the ability to hug their kids, return to work, or simply live without pain. That’s what makes this career so meaningful,” Julia says.
Her path wasn’t straight or obvious — and that’s exactly why her story matters to Gen Z students who may be wondering how to find their own careers in Indiana’s advanced industries.
Discovering a Passion for Innovation
Julia grew up in Newport, Michigan, in a family where no one worked in the engineering field. Her dad was a firefighter, her mom a teacher, and most relatives worked blue-collar jobs. Still, she was drawn to math, science, and problem-solving.
When she chose to study bioengineering at the University of Toledo, it wasn’t just the classes that excited her; it was the required co-ops. Those internships provided her with real-world experience in designing implants and conducting research, demonstrating that engineering isn’t just about equations—it’s about making an impact.
“Internships completely shifted my perspective,” Julia says. “They helped me discover my passion, test out real-world problem-solving, and see firsthand how advanced industries shape people’s lives.”
From College to Career in Indiana’s Advanced Industries
After two internships with Zimmer Biomet, Julia knew Indiana was where she wanted to launch her career. Now, as part of the Patient-Matched Implants team, she collaborates directly with surgeons to design custom solutions for patients worldwide.
Unlike traditional engineers who may spend years on a single product, Julia’s work is fast-paced and highly personalized. She currently manages more than 60 active cases simultaneously—each requiring critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication.
“No two projects are ever the same,” Julia says. “From CT scans to 3D models to custom implants, every case pushes me to think differently. The moment I see one of those implants used in surgery, it’s this powerful reminder that my work is changing lives.”
Advice for Others: Creating your Own Pathway
Julia knows many high school students don’t have it all figured out, and that’s okay. She didn’t either. What mattered most was surrounding herself with the right people, staying curious, and being willing to try new things.
Her advice for others considering a future in Indiana’s advanced industries:
Find your circle. Surround yourself with goal-driven individuals who challenge and inspire you to grow.
Embrace mistakes. Every error is a lesson that makes you stronger.
Get hands-on. Internships, shadowing, or even short-term experiences can help you discover what excites you — and what doesn’t.
Why Indiana is the Place to Build Your Future
Indiana is a national leader in advanced industries, including life sciences, agbiosciences, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and technology. These fields are growing, global, and in need of innovators ready to bring new ideas and perspectives.
“Life sciences isn’t just for doctors,” Julia says. “If you love creating, innovating, and solving problems, there’s a place for you. Indiana offers incredible opportunities to turn those skills into a meaningful career.”
For those still shaping their path, Julia’s story shows that curiosity is often the spark—and with persistence, it can ignite a career that transforms lives. Start exploring Indiana’s pathways today!
When Ashley Jeffirs walked onto her college campus, she wasn’t sure what career path she wanted to follow. She knew she loved math and science, but she also knew that biomedical engineering wasn’t the right fit for her.
Instead, Ashley leaned into what she loved most: solving problems, working with her hands, and creating things that matter. That decision set her on a journey to Indiana’s advanced industries, where today she’s making sparks fly—literally.
As a manufacturing engineer in Zimmer Biomet’s foundry, Ashley works in an environment where molten metal at 3,000 degrees is shaped into implants that restore movement and change lives.
“I didn’t picture myself in the foundry, but the moment I worked with metal, I knew it was where I belonged,” Ashley says. “It’s incredible to know the work I do here helps create implants that make a real difference for people everywhere.”
From Small-Town Roots to Big Impact
Ashley grew up in northern Indiana and wanted a college experience that felt personal and close-knit, so she chose Trine University. There, she stumbled across metallurgy and foundry sciences through her minor, and everything clicked.
She first connected with Zimmer Biomet at a career fair, landing an internship that gave her hands-on experience in extremities manufacturing. That taste of real-world engineering gave her the confidence to pursue a full-time career after graduation.
Innovation in Action
Ashley isn’t just working in the foundry; she’s already leaving her mark. She helps oversee the process of investment casting, where wax patterns are transformed into ceramic molds, molten metal is poured, and multiple implants are created simultaneously.
Her contributions have already saved the company time and money. She redesigned a tool to last a full year instead of just three weeks and spearheaded a project that reduced scrap material, saving $383,000.
But for Ashley, success isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about people.
“The best part of my job is being side by side with operators on the floor,” Ashley says. “When they bring me a problem, and together we find a solution, seeing the pride and excitement on their faces reminds me that what I do truly makes a difference.”
Advice for Other Young Adults
Ashley knows many high school students feel uncertain about the future; she was one of them. Her advice:
Be adaptable. “Plans change, and that’s okay.”
Find balance. “Don’t let school or work take over your life.”
Speak up. “Your voice matters, even if you’re the youngest person in the room.”
Planting Roots in Indiana
Indiana is home to powerhouse industries, including advanced manufacturing, life sciences, agbiosciences, logistics, and technology. For Ashley, staying in Indiana has meant being part of global innovation while working close to home.
“You don’t have to leave Indiana to do work that matters,” Ashley says. “Right here, there are opportunities to innovate, solve real problems, and build a career that changes lives.”
Ashley Jeffirs’ journey shows that meaningful careers in Indiana’s advanced industries don’t always start with a clear plan. Sometimes, they begin with curiosity, a willingness to try something new, and the courage to discover where they belong.
Her story is proof: the sparks that fly when you follow your passions can ignite a career that changes lives.
Want to turn your interests into a meaningful, fulfilling career? Explore opportunities in Indiana’s growing industries and discover the connections, programs, and possibilities that can help you See Yourself IN Indiana’s advanced industries. Get started today!
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:
Be open-minded. Don’t lock yourself into one idea too early.
Be flexible. Life will throw curveballs—be willing to adjust.
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 Vincent Mai joined his high school robotics team in Carmel, Indiana, he didn’t know it would set him on the path to a career in one of Indiana’s most important advanced industries—automotive manufacturing.
“I wasn’t 100% sure what I wanted to do in high school,” Vincent recalls. “I knew I liked engineering and technical work, but robotics gave me the confidence to pursue it as a career.”
That passion carried him to Purdue University, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering—a field he describes as the “jack of all trades” that opens doors to careers across industries.
A Career That Started in High School
Vincent’s favorite classes were the Project Lead the Way courses, where he learned the principles of digital electronics and engineering basics. “Those classes showed me what STEM careers in Indiana could look like,” he says.
Through robotics, he also met professionals from Allison Transmission, an Indianapolis-based leader in advanced manufacturing and automotive technology. That early connection turned into two internships during college—hands-on experiences that shaped his career.
“I interned at Allison in 2017 and 2018. By the end of that second summer, I knew it was where I wanted to be full-time,” Vincent says.
From Internships to Engineering
Today, Vincent works as a Control Systems Engineer at Allison Transmission, developing and testing software that powers vehicles worldwide.
“My role is like being a software engineer with extra responsibilities,” he explains. “Some weeks I’m coding and designing at my desk. Other weeks, I’m on the test track, putting that software into trucks and evaluating performance.”
For Vincent, this combination of design, implementation, and real-world testing makes his career dynamic—and deeply rewarding.
Lessons for the Next Generation
Vincent has three lessons for anyone exploring how to start a career in engineering or Indiana’s advanced industries:
Be open-minded. “Try new things—you never know what opportunities will open up.”
Stay flexible. “Plans change, and that’s okay. Sometimes you discover you like a different path.”
Take initiative. “If there’s something you’re passionate about, tell your managers and mentors. That’s how you create your own opportunities.”
Building a Future in Indiana
Although Vincent once considered aerospace or medical engineering, advanced manufacturing and automotive jobs in Indiana proved to be the right fit.
“Indiana has so many opportunities in advanced industries,” he says. “I started with robotics in high school, built skills at Purdue, and now I’m working on real-world solutions right here at home. You can absolutely build a career you love—right here in Indiana.”
Want to turn your interests into a meaningful, fulfilling career? Explore opportunities in Indiana’s growing industries and discover the connections, programs, and possibilities that can help you See Yourself IN Indiana’s advanced industries. Get started today!
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.
Whether you’re early in your high school journey or are heading towards whatever is next, now is a critical time of exploration and change.
When you think about your future career, do you want to do something that matters? Would you like to help people? Protect the planet? Solve problems that actually impact the world around you?
If this sounds like you, those careers are out there. And, the good news is, they’re right here in Indiana. Whether you’re into science, technology, hands-on work, or creative problem solving, there is a path out there to for you.
Here are 8 careers where you can do meaningful work, right here in Indiana.
8 Careers that Make a Difference
1. Precision Agriculture Technician
Precision Agriculture Technicians use advanced tools like drones, GPS, and data software to help farmers grow more food using fewer resources. As the world’s population continues to grow, it’s becoming increasingly important to meet the increased demand for food. Agricultural technicians use technology to be more precise and efficient when it comes to creating better food (and more of it). On the job, they might install or operate high-tech farm equipment or even fly drones to collect insights on fields. At the end of the day, they help farmers make data-driven decisions that increase supply and reduce waste. This ensures that our communities have the food they need both now and in the future.
Bioinformatics specialists use computer science and biology to analyze data, especially genetic data, to understand diseases and develop treatments. By having a better understanding, scientists and doctors can develop new treatments and personalize medicine for patients, contributing to a healthier world. Bioinformatics specialists often find themselves developing and managing databases of genetic information and collaborating with biologists, geneticists, and researchers to turn insights into action. Whether engaged in cancer research, tracking infectious disease, or personalizing medicine, this career path makes an impact on peoples’ lives and well-being.
Cybersecurity specialists are responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring hardware and/or software security measures that protect computer systems, networks, and sensitive data from cyberattacks. Think of this role as a digital bodyguard, protecting all kinds of businesses, like schools, hospitals, even government agencies, from hackers, viruses, and online threats. Day to day, cybersecurity specialists might find themselves setting up firewalls and security protocols or investigating breaches or attempted hacks. Additionally, they are responsible for educating employees on safe online practices. With almost everything we do today, from baking to healthcare to school records, relying on digital systems, cybersecurity specialists play an important role in protecting our data and information.
Mechatronics technicians work at the intersection of mechanical systems, electronics, and computer technology to keep advanced manufacturing machines running efficiently. These high-tech systems are used to produce everything from electric vehicles to medical devices. On the job, mechatronics technicians may install or repair robotic arms, troubleshoot mechanical or software issues, or program automated systems that help make factories safer, faster, and more efficient. By keeping the technology behind production lines running smoothly, mechatronics technicians play a crucial role in delivering the tools, products, and innovations our world relies on.
5. User Experience (UX) Designer
UX (User Experience) designers make technology more human by designing apps, websites, and digital tools that are easy to use and enjoyable to navigate. Their work is especially important in areas like healthcare and education, where accessible and intuitive design can make a big difference in people’s lives. UX designers often work with users to understand their needs, sketch layouts and wireframes for a new app, and collaborate with software developers to bring the ideas to life. This role combines creativity with problem-solving (and technical skills), so if you enjoy blending design with real-world impact, UX design could be a rewarding career path for you!
Public health program managers lead initiatives that improve the health and well-being of people at the community level. For example, they might organize vaccine clinics or mental health awareness campaigns, turning big ideas into real-world programs that help people live healthier lives. This role may find themselves managing budgets, coordinating with healthcare providers, overseeing outreach efforts, and even analyzing data. This role is a great way to blend an interest in science with project management, communication, and problem-solving skills, making it a great option for people who are interested in health and well-being at a community level, without an interest in becoming a doctor.
7. Supply Chain Analyst
Supply chain analysts help make sure essential goods (like food, medicine, and emergency supplies) get where they need to go, when they’re needed most. They work behind the sciences to analyze data, forecast demand, and solve logistical challenges so products move efficiently from manufacturers to customers. On the job, a supply chain analyst might study trends to prevent shortages, improve delivery rounds, or help a company efficiently respond to disruptions like natural disasters or weather events. This work also has a direct impact on everything from stocking grocery store shelves to ensuring hospitals have the equipment they need. If you’re interested in solving problems and are interested in making a difference in how the world works, a career in supply chain may be an option to explore.
8. Plant Geneticist
Plant geneticists work at the intersection of science and sustainability, developing crops that are more nutritious, resistant to disease, and able to thrive in changing climates. Their work plays a key role in solving global challenges like food insecurity, hunger, and agricultural sustainability, which is especially important as the world’s population grows. On the job, they might analyze plant DNA in a lab, breed new crop varieties in a greenhouse, or work with farmers in the field to test how new plants perform in real-world conditions. Thanks to their research and innovation, we now have drought-resistant grains, vitamin-enriched produce, and crops that require fewer pesticides. If you’re interested in biology and want to use science to make a real difference in the world, plant genetics could be your path.
Impactful careers are all around you. Whether you’re drawn to science, technology, design, or hands-on work, there’s a meaningful path waiting for you right here in Indiana. These roles extend beyond just a paycheck. They offer purpose.
As you think about your future, explore what matters to you, and where your interests lie. Are you passionate about protecting the planet? Helping people stay healthy? Building smarter solutions that are easier to use? The jobs highlighted here are just the beginning, and there are so many careers available that can help you make a difference.
So, ask yourself: what kind of impact do you want to make? Then, start exploring. Because Indiana’s advanced industries need problem-solvers like you.
