This blog recently discussed how Indiana is continuing to show positive growth in terms of the manufacturing industry. While more businesses are expanding into the state, the way that manufacturing skills are taught could soon change.

German Ambassador to the United States Peter Ammon spoke at Ivy Tech Community College on Monday, explaining that the Indiana economy could greatly benefit from more individuals learning manufacturing skills.

"It's a simple truth: Not everybody can become a neurosurgeon or a lawyer or a financial wizard," Ammon said, being quoted by The Statehouse File. "Manufacturing requires different skills, and I think what's important to tell the people here is that today's manufacturing is no longer equated with dirty jobs that bring home low pay."

Ivy Tech hosted a luncheon, where officials from Germany and Indiana spoke about improving the manufacturing skills in today's workforce. Indiana Governor Mike Pence agreed with Ammon that focusing on jobs could further strengthen the Hoosier state's economic growth. Working with Germany can also make that goal a greater reality, he said.

An op-ed piece in the CNHI Statehouse Bureau also said that it is important to teach manufacturing skills to more individuals. Maureen Hayden, the article's author, explained that Germany's "dual system" is a wise one, that Indiana should follow. In that approach, vocational education is combined with classroom learning and paid, on-the-job training for high school students.

The Indiana manufacturing industry is likely to continue undergoing changes, and companies must ensure that they can keep pace. Having updated manufacturing software systems will help organizations make necessary adjustments and give employees access to the latest innovations to contribute to their business.