Indiana Receives $150K in Funding from National Governors Association

Indiana’s proposal to develop statewide Learning Employment Record (LER) systems has been fully funded for $150,000 from the National Governors Association (NGA). LER systems are digital resumés that show individuals’ skills, educational experiences and work histories.  

LERs may make career pathways more accessible and equitable by providing jobseekers with detailed, verified and secure records of their skills, as well as educational experiences and work histories. This information can better match employers with potential employees.

“It’s a tremendous win for Indiana to receive funding to develop Learning Employment Record systems,” said Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Chris Lowery.

“As our state’s economy continues to evolve, it’s critical for Hoosier employers to have a pipeline of workers with the right skills and credentials. And we are excited about the opportunity to develop an effective tool that provides Hoosiers with the opportunity to record, present and share relevant skills, achievements and credentials to employers.”

Indiana has several initiatives already underway that can speed the development of LERs in the state, including the Commission’s Indiana Credential Registry and e-Transcript initiatives, the Indiana Department of Education’s development of the Indiana Graduates Prepared to Succeed (GPS), the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Workforce and Talent initiative, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Workforce Excellence and Western Governors University’s Indiana Achievement Wallet.

Indiana is one of only two Midwestern states, and six states overall, to receive an NGA grant – the other states include Arkansas, Colorado, North Dakota, Virginia and Washington. Representatives from the Governor’s Office, Indiana Department of Education, Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Western Governor’s University and the Indiana Chamber of Commerce join the Commission in leading this work.

About the Indiana Commission for Higher Education:

Created in 1971, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education plans, coordinates and defines Indiana’s postsecondary education system to align higher learning with the needs of students and the state. The Commission also administers Indiana’s financial aid programs, including the 21st Century Scholars early college promise scholarship, which celebrated 30 years in 2020.

Learn more about the Commission’s Reaching Higher in a State of Change strategic plan at in.gov/che.