Workforce First Employer Designation

The program is operationalized between the Indiana Chamber and its subsidiary, the Institute for Workforce Excellence.

“A call to action for employers across the state who understand that investing in workforce development isn’t just good business – it’s the foundation of prosperous, resilient communities.”

Workforce First Designated Employers

The Workforce First Employer designation highlights organizations whose human resources teams are actively engaged in professional development – both internally for employees and externally through collaboration with education and workforce partners.

Designated employers are recognized for their meaningful input into education and workforce systems – such as shaping curriculum, informing policy, offering work-based learning and building pipelines for emerging talent.

If your organization is investing in people and building partnerships that matter, the Indiana Chamber urges you to get the designation process started by filling out the above application. Applications are reviewed on a monthly basis.

Join Us to Learn More

  • June 2, 11 a.m. ET

  • July 14, 11 a.m. ET

  • August 18, 11 a.m. ET

Register to attend an informational webinar here: Events – Institute for Workforce Excellence

Workforce Strategy Designation Criteria

Work-Based Learning

Internships, apprenticeships, co-ops, job shadowing, mentorships

K–12, Postsecondary/ Adult Education Engagement

Career day participation, classroom speaking, curriculum input, advisory board involvement

Upskilling and Reskilling Workforce

Ongoing skills training, tuition reimbursement, cross-training, certifications for current staff

Strategic Workforce Integration

Workforce development is embedded in hiring plans, business growth strategy and HR systems

Job and Wage Quality

Offers competitive, industry-aligned and/or livable wages for entry and mid-level roles

Workforce Partnerships & Collaboration

Partnerships with workforce boards, schools, colleges, economic development groups, etc.

Weighted system will be implemented by organization size (number of FTEs). There are 10 possible points awarded for each category.

Total possible points: 60 *Categories and criteria for designation program are subject to change. 

Distinguished Designation Levels & Organizational Recognition

Workforce Champion Badge

Workforce Champion

High-performing, strategic workforce leader

Workforce Advocate Badge

Workforce Advocate

Active contributor, building momentum

Recognition

This designation promotes a streamlined process for employers to engage with education and workforce initiatives. Seen as a leader in workforce development.

Enhanced Visibility

It signals that the organization is committed to long-term talent investment and partnership to jobseekers, educators and policymakers.

Access

By reducing duplication, employers gain added value from participating in an integrated ecosystem of support. Allows access to robust talent, pilot opportunities and shared learning spaces.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Employer operates within the state of Indiana
  • Engaged in workforce/education partnerships and programming for at least one year
  • Identify a consistent employee/representative as a contact for communication regarding the designation
  • Meet the criteria listed above and submit appropriate documentation necessary

Additional Features

Application Requirements

An online application form will be required, and employers will be asked to provide a brief narrative and evidence for each criterion.

Accepted Application

Employers will receive a digital badge and campaign toolkit, be listed on our website and social media, as well as receive invitation to recognition event.

Annual Qualification

All recognized employers must qualify annually to maintain their designation. Employers must submit a new application every year and be re-evaluated. Recognition is valid for 12 months from the award date.

Upcoming Workforce Designation Events