This June, the Indiana Construction Roundtable (ICR) hosted an engaging event that was a gathering of industry leaders, aimed at paving the path for the future of construction in Indiana.  

ICR President Chris Price kicked off the event with a warm welcome and heartfelt thanks to everyone for attending. Following was a spotlight on the incredible work being done by Ascend Indiana to strengthen the talent pipeline in the construction industry. 

The keynote speaker, Erica Viar from Ascend Indiana, spoke to the audience about innovative apprenticeship programs in Switzerland. She emphasized how these programs, considered the gold standard globally, could be adapted to Indiana’s high schools. Viar highlighted that Switzerland’s vocational and professional education and training system is unparalleled in preparing young people for careers and upskilling adults. She believes that by integrating these methods, Hoosier students could earn degrees while meeting employer talent needs, offering numerous pathways without dead ends. 

Indiana contractors are set to play a pivotal role in this initiative by imparting practical skills both in the field and in the office. The panel discussion that followed featured inspiring stories from leaders who had traveled to Switzerland. The panelists included Sarah Walker from the Hagerman Group, Tim Whicker from Electric Plus and Corey Baugh from Milestone.  

Corey, the Vice President/Area Manager of our Milestone area in Columbus, shared a memorable story about purchasing a Swiss army knife, symbolizing the practical and versatile skills that the program aims to instill in students. 

“You know how a Swiss Army knife is incredibly versatile, with all those different tools packed into one neat little gadget?” asked Corey.  “It turns out that our academic and career pathways can be just as flexible and diverse. Just like the knife, we have the ability to switch between different tools or paths throughout our schooling and professional lives.  

“Imagine starting your journey with one tool, thinking it’s the perfect fit, only to discover along the way that another tool or path suits you better,” he said. “The beauty of this idea is that it highlights the importance of adaptability and the willingness to explore new opportunities as they arise. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to embrace change and be open to learning new skills or taking on different roles. By doing so, we can unlock our full potential and make the most of the various paths available to us.”  

Corey is excited to bring his learnings back to his teams, eager to implement innovative strategies and enhance development programs here at Milestone and in the associations, he is involved in. 

Each panelist expressed a shared passion for connecting students to the construction industry from a young age. This event was a motivating experience that showcases that we have the potential to shape the destiny of the younger generation with the support of all trades involved.