Fort Wayne, Indiana – October 17, 2023 – The Don Wood Foundation and OrthoWorx are partnering with TPMA to complete a comprehensive research study on the technical education ecosystem in Kosciusko and Whitley counties.
Technical education connects employer needs with hands-on and relevant training that provides students with skills to succeed in the workplace. The Don Wood Foundation and OrthoWorx want to build upon already existing information to help provide a clear picture of regional activities. The goal is to understand what is working well in the two counties, where there are challenges and opportunities, and what the best initiatives may be in the future. The study will help inform the priorities for the Foundation’s funding allocation.
“Our goal is to better coordinate regional efforts to develop and support excellent technical education programs for students in northeast Indiana, leading to high-paying careers.,” said Patrick Buesching, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives for the Don Wood Foundation.
“By diving deep into the current state of technical education and understanding the unique needs of these communities, we aim to bridge gaps and create pathways that empower students to achieve success in the workplace. This collaboration with the Don Wood Foundation and Orthoworx is not just about gathering data; it’s about shaping the future of technical education in northeast Indiana and ensuring that these students are equipped with the skills they need to thrive,” commented Nioka Clark, Senior Consultant with TPMA.
“The study kicked off in September with a discovery phase, including a review of current data, plans, and resources. Input from key stakeholders is critical to the study’s success. TPMA anticipates a diverse set of stakeholders will be engaged through this process. The study will include an in-depth analysis of the technical education ecosystem across the two counties and the final report is expected in December. The Don Wood Foundation intends to publicly share the study’s results so that all interested parties can benefit from the work.
About the Don Wood Foundation:
The Don Wood Foundation is a private foundation, established in 2018 by Don Wood, founder of 80/20, Inc., that serves and supports innovators, leaders, collaborators, and skilled workers with the potential to create and sustain opportunities in manufacturing. The Foundation partners with non-profits and educational institutions to provide sustained investment that supports the development of a diverse workforce through exposure, education, and training to create strong communities rooted in the advancement of manufacturing.
Patrick Buesching Don Wood Foundation 260.212.1235 [email protected]
About OrthoWorx:
OrthoWorx is a non-profit formed in 2009 with initial funding from the Lilly Endowment Inc. to preserve and extend our region’s legacy as the Orthopedic Capital.® Based in Warsaw, Indiana, we work with orthopedic industry members, academic partners and community leaders to capitalize on the resources and expertise across our region and in our industry to achieve common goals. It is our mission to ensure that our industry and the communities that depend on its success thrive with social and economic benefits for generations to come.
Erin Serafino OrthoWorx 574.253.8367 [email protected]
About TPMA:
TPMA is a national consulting firm that works at the intersection of workforce development, economic development, education, and community impact. The firm empowers organizations and communities through strategic partnerships and data-informed solutions that create positive, sustainable change. TPMA envisions a world that thinks strategically, works collaboratively, and acts sustainably. Working toward that vision, TPMA has provided clients with a range of services to design, develop, evaluate, and implement effective plans and programs.
For complete information, visit: www.tpma-inc.com
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Contact:
Steven Gause Director of Strategy and Growth Initiatives [email protected].
Media Contact:
TPMA Attn: Steven Gause, Director, Strategy + Growth 1630 N. Meridian Street Suite 330 Indianapolis, IN 46202 317.894.5508 [email protected]
Media ContactCompany Name: TPMAContact Person: Steven GauseEmail: Send EmailPhone: 317.894.5508Address:1630 N. Meridian Street, Suite 330 City: IndianapolisState: IN 46202Country: United StatesWebsite: www.tpma-inc.com/
