Introduction: A Hub of Hands-On Discovery
On April 1st, 2025, the Ivy Tech Tell City Career and Technology Center wasn’t just a campus building; it transformed into a dynamic hub of exploration and opportunity. The 4th Annual Skilled Trades Fair, presented through the strong partnership between the Perry County Development Corporation (PCDC) and Ivy Tech Tell City, brought energy, engagement, and real-world experience directly to local students.
The Purpose and Vision: Connecting Talent with Opportunity
Why host a Skilled Trades Fair? As highlighted by organizers like Whitney Zellers (PCDC) and Katie King (Ivy Tech) in conversations about the event, the vision is clear: connect students directly with the high-demand, high-wage skilled career paths available right here in Perry County. It’s about showcasing viable, rewarding futures that leverage technical skills, certifications, and apprenticeships – pathways crucial for individual success and our region’s economic strength. The goal is to open eyes to opportunities that build solid careers and keep talent thriving locally.
Showcasing Key Industries and Activities
This wasn’t a typical career fair. Forget passive displays; the 2025 Fair was all about doing. Students from six regional school corporations dove into hands-on activities representing Perry County’s vital industries. As seen in the event highlights, they operated VR welding simulators, practiced essential healthcare skills like assisting in mock surgeries, explored complex electrical wiring boards, got up close with heavy equipment used in construction and logistics thanks to participants like Boyd CAT, and learned about advanced manufacturing processes like metal casting with industry leaders such as Waupaca Foundry. The energy was palpable as students engaged directly with the tools and techniques used in manufacturing, healthcare, construction, utilities, and logistics every day.
Benefits Beyond the Day: Students and the Community
For the over 300 students attending, the benefits were immediate: a chance to demystify different trades, understand the required training, and envision themselves in these roles. It sparked interest and provided clarity on potential career directions. For Perry County, the benefit is foundational. Events like this cultivate our future workforce, ensuring a pipeline of skilled talent ready to meet the needs of local employers, thereby strengthening our community’s economic resilience and long-term prosperity.
Opportunities for Local Business Engagement
The Skilled Trades Fair serves as a critical bridge for Perry County businesses. Participation offers companies a unique platform to showcase their industry, demystify their work, and connect with their future workforce. It’s an investment in building their talent pipeline, increasing brand visibility among potential employees and the community, and actively shaping the skillsets needed for their growth and success right here in our region.
Collaboration: The Driving Force
The success of the Skilled Trades Fair hinges on powerful collaboration. The foundational partnership between the Perry County Development Corporation (PCDC) and Ivy Tech Community College Tell City provides the framework and resources. However, the event truly comes alive thanks to the commitment of dozens of local employers, trade organizations (like the Iron Workers, IBEW, Bricklayers, and Plumbers & Steamfitters locals), healthcare providers, manufacturers, and community partners (like the Indiana Army National Guard) who dedicate their time, expertise, and equipment. This collective effort underscores a shared commitment to Perry County’s future.
Workforce Development: A Pillar of Perry County’s Growth
Make no mistake: the Skilled Trades Fair is a core component of Perry County’s broader economic development strategy, spearheaded by PCDC. A skilled, adaptable, and ready workforce is consistently cited as a top factor for business attraction and retention. By proactively investing in initiatives like this Fair, PCDC demonstrates Perry County’s commitment to fostering the talent pool businesses need to thrive, making our county an increasingly attractive place for investment and growth.
The 2025 Experience: Energy, Interaction, and Insight
Walking through the 2025 Skilled Trades Fair meant experiencing a vibrant atmosphere of discovery. The direct interaction between students asking insightful questions and professionals sharing their passion was invaluable. Watching students focus intently on a complex task, whether virtual or physical, highlighted the deep engagement fostered by hands-on learning. It provided tangible proof that connecting education and industry sparks genuine interest and builds pathways to fulfilling careers.
Conclusion: Investing in Tomorrow, Today
The 4th Annual Skilled Trades Fair was more than just a successful event; it was a powerful demonstration of Perry County’s proactive approach to building a prosperous future. By investing in our students, fostering collaboration between education and industry, and strategically developing our workforce, PCDC and its partners are laying the groundwork for sustained economic vitality.
Interested in learning more about Perry County’s workforce initiatives or how your business can participate in future events? Contact the Perry County Development Corporation (PCDC).
