LTE: Local organizations like Wagler Education & Training Center are needed - Nov '25

By: Britt Miller, Director, Member Engagement, UDWI REMC

According to a study conducted by Ivy Tech earlier this year, there will be a need for more than 82,000 people to gain non-degree credentials— such as skills training, certifications and licenses— in the next decade to meet the growing demand for skilled trade jobs in Indiana.

One organization helping to support people into entering skilled-trade positions is Wagler Education & Training Center (WETC), based in Lyons. WETC is a state-approved Adult Education Site offering the Indiana High School Equivalency and certifications in trade skills. As a local organization, Wagler Education & Training Center is passionate about helping fellow community members achieve their goals by advancing their careers and their overall qualities-of-life— something I discovered when I toured WETC to learn more about what they do.

During the tour, I had the chance to meet with Michelle Ellis, Director of Training Programs & Adult Education Coordinator. Michelle truly embodies the mission of WETC and cares for the success of each one of her students; her heart for helping the community is reflected in the success of WETC, with 352 students having graduated from various programs from July of 2024 through June of this year. Upon graduation, many families are able to become self-sufficient, going into skilled-trade professions across Indiana and advancing their annual incomes by thousands of dollars.

The specific trade skills offered by Wagler Education & Training Center include: IT Fundamentals, Welding, CNC Machining, CDL-A training, CDL-B, School Bus, Heavy Equipment Operations, Core Construction, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, HVAC and Medical Billing & Coding.

For those looking to further themselves, now is a great time to apply as a student at waglereducation.com. Community members can also support WETC's mission by purchasing something on their Amazon wishlist or by "sponsoring a student."

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