Indianapolis, January 5, 2026
Indiana Governor Mike Braun has announced the reinstatement of the State Workforce Development Board after its previous dissolution. This initiative is designed to enhance the state’s workforce development strategies and ensure alignment with federal workforce initiatives. The reconstituted board will focus on coordinating efforts between employers, education providers, and state agencies to improve job opportunities and support economic growth across Indiana.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Governor Reinstates Workforce Development Board
Indianapolis, Indiana – Indiana Governor Mike Braun has re-established the State Workforce Development Board, a move that comes just months after the previous board was dissolved. This action aims to strengthen the state’s workforce development strategy and ensure compliance with federal workforce initiatives.
Reinstatement of the Board
Governor Braun signed an executive order to reconstitute the State Workforce Development Board, positioning it as a central coordinating body. The board’s primary role is to align employers, education and training providers, and state agencies around measurable workforce outcomes. This initiative seeks to enhance job opportunities and wage growth for Hoosier workers.
Background on the Previous Board
In July 2025, the 21-member Governor’s Workforce Cabinet was eliminated following the approval of the state budget bill by the General Assembly. The Workforce Cabinet, established in 2018 at the request of then-Governor Eric Holcomb, was dissolved as part of broader budgetary adjustments. Its responsibilities were transferred to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. The recent reinstatement of the board reflects a renewed focus on workforce development within the state.
Composition and Appointment Process
The re-established board will include members appointed by Governor Braun, with nominations from Indiana business organizations, trade associations, and labor unions. Board members will also include officials responsible for state workforce programs and representatives from local government. The governor will serve as a member of the board, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to workforce development.
Implications for Indiana’s Workforce
The reinstatement of the State Workforce Development Board is expected to provide a more coordinated approach to workforce development in Indiana. By bringing together key stakeholders, the board aims to address workforce challenges, improve job training programs, and support economic growth across the state.
Conclusion
Governor Braun’s decision to reinstate the State Workforce Development Board underscores a strategic effort to enhance Indiana’s workforce development initiatives. This move aims to create new opportunities and increase wages for Hoosier workers, aligning with federal workforce development standards and addressing the state’s evolving economic needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the State Workforce Development Board?
The State Workforce Development Board is a central coordinating body in Indiana that aligns employers, education and training providers, and state agencies to achieve measurable workforce outcomes.
Why was the previous board dissolved?
The previous 21-member Governor’s Workforce Cabinet was dissolved in July 2025 as part of budgetary adjustments approved by the General Assembly, with its responsibilities transferred to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
Who appoints the members of the re-established board?
Members of the re-established board are appointed by Governor Mike Braun, with nominations from Indiana business organizations, trade associations, and labor unions. The governor will also serve as a member of the board.
What are the goals of reinstating the board?
The reinstatement aims to strengthen Indiana’s workforce development strategy, ensure compliance with federal workforce initiatives, and create new job opportunities and higher wages for Hoosier workers.
How does this affect Indiana’s workforce development efforts?
The re-established board is expected to provide a more coordinated approach to workforce development, addressing challenges, improving job training programs, and supporting economic growth across the state.
Key Features of the Reinstated State Workforce Development Board
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Composition | Members appointed by Governor Braun, including representatives from business organizations, trade associations, labor unions, state workforce programs, and local government. |
| Primary Role | To align employers, education and training providers, and state agencies around measurable workforce outcomes. |
| Appointment Process | Governor Braun appoints members based on nominations from various organizations, with the governor also serving as a member. |
| Objective | To strengthen Indiana’s workforce development strategy, ensure compliance with federal workforce initiatives, and create new job opportunities and higher wages for Hoosier workers. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Governor Braun Announces Key Appointments for Indiana Boards
Education Legislation Takes Center Stage in Indiana
Indianapolis Schools Seek Exemption from Dollar Law
Indiana Senate to Vote on Redistricting Proposal
Amazon’s $15 Billion Investment Propels Northern Indiana Economy
Health Insurance Costs in Indiana May Surge as Tax Credits Expire
Indiana’s Business Climate Ranking Faces Decline Amid Economic Strategy Debate
Indianapolis Approves Record $1.7 Billion Budget Focused on Public Safety and Infrastructure
Broward County School District Proposes Major Changes
Corteva Announces Corporate Split into Two Companies
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
