Indiana Governor Mike Braun is promoting a state‑wide workforce training initiative that is already delivering higher wages for utility workers and giving businesses a practical tool to keep experienced employees. The Power Up Employer Training Grant, launched in 2025, reimburses participating companies up to $5,000 per employee—capped at $50,000 per year—when they meet defined wage‑increase criteria.
Local firms see real pay gains
Two Indiana companies have already taken advantage of the program. US Hydrovac, based in Indianapolis, used grant funds to help eight employees earn Commercial Driver’s Licenses. Those workers moved into higher‑paying roles and reported an average hourly wage increase of $10. The company notes that all eight employees remain on staff, underscoring the grant’s role in retention.
In Columbus, Gehring Underground Inc., a provider of excavation and underground utility installation services, trained nearly two dozen employees to obtain Class A Commercial Driver’s Licenses. The training produced average wage gains of roughly 25 percent for those workers.
Officials stress long‑term benefits
“The Power Up Employer Training Grant program is delivering higher wages for hardworking Hoosiers and a skilled‑up workforce for businesses across Indiana, and we want even more companies to take advantage,” Governor Braun said.
Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich added that the grant also helps businesses retain experienced staff by creating clear pathways for professional growth. State officials say the initiative is designed to equip Indiana workers with valuable certifications while strengthening the state’s overall workforce competitiveness.
How to apply
Businesses interested in participating can learn more through the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. The department provides application details, eligibility requirements, and guidance on how to document wage increases to qualify for reimbursements.
Company leaders from both US Hydrovac and Gehring Underground indicated plans to expand training efforts in the next grant cycle, citing positive feedback from employees and the financial incentive that helps offset training costs.
Impact on Indiana’s economy
By linking skill development with wage growth, the Power Up Grant aligns with Indiana’s broader economic strategy of fostering a robust, family‑friendly labor market. Higher wages support traditional families, while expanded training opportunities uphold individual liberty by giving workers the tools to advance their careers.
As more firms adopt the program, the state expects to see continued improvements in employee retention, reduced turnover costs, and a more competitive utility sector that can meet the growing energy needs of Hoosier communities.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
