October ushers in many things – cooler weather, the excitement of Halloween, and National Manufacturing Month. While many may not be familiar with the latter, it’s a nationwide effort to highlight industries that contribute innovations that raise the standard of living for everyone.
Though Indiana is largely known for its agricultural contributions, the state’s manufacturing sector now accounts for 30% of its gross domestic product. It employs over 530,000 Hoosiers, with an annual average income of over $89,000.
As part of Manufacturing Month, Conexus Indiana will open nominations for the 2025 Rising 30 list at the end of October.
Entering its fifth year, the Rising 30 list showcases emerging talent and future leaders in engineering, entrepreneurship, education, CEOs and product development.
Conexus Indiana, a nonprofit arm of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), is focused on advanced manufacturing and logistics (AML). CICP oversees five initiatives designed to position Indiana as a global leader in economic development: agbiosciences, talent and workforce development, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and logistics, and technology.
“The AML sector continues to grow,” said Conexus Senior Director of Communications Molly Zentz. “We are a destination for the industry because of our central location, strong ecosystem for growth, vibrant start-up community, and comprehensive small-business support – all poised to drive Indiana forward.”
The Rising 30 list is an extension of Conexus Indiana’s mission to establish Indiana as an ideal location for AML enterprises.
“Other industries have many awards, but that value is often overlooked in AML,” said Zentz. By identifying 30 innovators making waves before turning 30, the initiative provides recognition and exposure for future leaders and entrepreneurs. “These are the doers and change-makers,” she explained.
While the list includes engineers, project managers, and rising C-level executives, all the honorees share a common goal: to play a larger role in their communities and encourage younger generations to pursue high-paying careers in AML, while keeping their roots in the Hoosier state.
“This list helps create a network of new champions, not just for the industry, but for Indiana as a place to work and live,” Zentz added.
Nominations for the Class of 2025 open on October 28 and close on January 6, 2025. Zentz shared that ideal nominees possess the following characteristics:
- Manufacturing or Logistics Impact: Directly shaping the design, manufacture or logistics of products.
- AML Innovator/Change-Maker: Leading transformational change and innovation within their company.
- Community Impact: Committed to volunteerism, mentorship or developing other leaders, with a preference for AML-specific community impact.
- Storyteller/Inspiration to Others: Influencing and inspiring others to enact change.
- Career Progression: Demonstrating career advancement with compelling future goals.
For more information on the Rising 30, including lists of past award winners and how to nominate someone, visit conexusindiana.com.
