At a time where workforce participation rates are struggling to eclipse 65 percent, states must take new initiatives to improve the capability of their laborers. Tying that workforce development to a relatively successful industry is a strategy that can fuel economic growth. Indiana's utilization of a $2.4 million grant from the US Department of Labor demonstrates the impact of that initiative.

Governor Mike Pence spoke to the state's desire to improve the capabilities of its workforce.

"We also want to make sure that our high schools, our post-secondary institutions are creating more effective pathways so that our young people are entering the workforce with the background and the training that they need," Pence said.

Pathways that focus on educating students about manufacturing processes offer the potential for future growth within that industry. Despite leading the nation in manufacturing growth, Indiana must take new approaches to sustain that success.

The manufacturing sector accounts for a large portion of Indiana's GDP. By preserving the growth of that industry, the state can continue to provide its residents with jobs that enable them to achieve a quality standard of living.

Vocational education programs provide students with exposure to industry standard tools that qualify them for high level manufacturing jobs. By improving the available workforce, manufacturers enable themselves to further their growth.

Manufacturing business software is a tool that improves the efficiency and production of enterprises within this industry. By exposing students to the use of this component of ERP, businesses render themselves more capable of sustaining their prolonged success.

Accent Software, Inc. provides manufacturing software to businesses in order to improve the administration of their operations. By utilizing this aspect of ERP, a manufacturer can assure its labor force is operating efficiently.