(Versailles, IN) – The Southeastern Indiana Career Center (SCC) celebrated a $6 million investment on Friday.
SCC will use funding from the state’s READI program for a major modernization project to update aging infrastructure and improve instructional spaces, which officials say will increase its ability to provide hands-on training aligned with the workforce needs of regional employers.
“The $3 million READI 2.0 grant is a tremendous investment in the future of SCC and the students and communities we serve,” said SCC Director Tracy Bear. “This funding will allow us to strengthen and expand career and technical education opportunities, ensuring our students have access to high-quality training that prepares them for the workforce needs of our region.”
SCC has served the region since 1966 and helps approximately 400 students earn credentials and certificates each year, supporting talent development across construction, manufacturing, healthcare, culinary arts, cosmetology, media, public safety, transformation and technology.
“Indiana boasts a diverse economy and a workforce to match, and we’re proud to support talent initiatives focused on trades and in-demand jobs, helping students get to the workforce faster,” said Gov. Mike Braun. “This investment in the Southeastern Career Center will improve the facility, but most importantly expand its ability to serve even more Hoosiers, ensuring students have the access they need to train and prepare for high-quality jobs.”
The governor’s office says region’s investment in SCC represents an investment in Southeastern Indiana’s future workforce and the economic competitiveness of the region.
By expanding access to modern career and technical education, the Career Center will continue to connect students with in-demand skills, while helping regional employers build the talent base they need to grow and succeed.
Additionally, SCC serves students from communities beyond Southeastern Indiana, supporting the state’s broader workforce development goals.
“Hoosiers across the state are advancing in key trades and boosting Indiana’s economy,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich. “Growing Indiana means ensuring Hoosiers have the skills to step into high-demand, high-wage careers while giving employers access to the talent they need to grow. This investment in the Southeast Career Center strengthens both sides of that equation – creating greater opportunity for Hoosiers and building the workforce that will help businesses and communities across Southeast Indiana thrive.”
Indiana’s READI program is a $1.25 billion investment in regional-led strategies designed to strengthen communities, retain and attract top talent, and increase opportunities for Hoosiers for years to come.
SEI READI – which is composed of Ripley, Franklin, Dearborn, Ohio, Switzerland and Union counties – was awarded $25 million in READI 1.0 and READI 2.0 matching funds, with additional project support through Lilly Endowment Inc. grant funds, to grow the region’s quality of place, quality of life and quality of opportunity.
Learn more at IndianaREADI.com.
