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MadeByMe Careers & Certifications

Great Pay. Great Future.

Northeast Indiana is home to hundreds of manufacturers and a thriving construction sector. These industries are building parts for cars, aircraft, medical devices, and more, while construction professionals shape the homes and businesses in our communities. These hands-on careers require skill and training, offer competitive pay, and play a vital role in improving the quality of life in Allen County.

  • Solid Pay

     Start earning strong wages early in your career.

  • High Demand

    Skilled workers are needed everywhere—jobs are waiting.

  • Career Variety

    Explore paths in construction, manufacturing, and technical trades.

  • Community Impact

    Help build and shape the places people live and work.

    Thousands of Jobs Await
    Allen County’s Aging Workforce

    With 27% of Allen County’s manufacturing workforce and 23% of its construction workforce nearing retirement, your skills are needed now more than ever. Over the next decade, nearly 43,000 job openings in production and construction are projected across Allen County.

    Career Opportunities in
    Manufacturing

    Manufacturing today is a world apart from the factories of the past. It’s a dynamic, high-tech industry where innovation happens every day. Modern manufacturing careers put you at the forefront of technology, working with robotics, precision machinery, and advanced systems to create products that impact lives around the globe. These roles are fast-paced, highly skilled, and offer excellent opportunities for growth and advancement.

    Career Opportunities in
    Skilled Trades

    If you enjoy working with your hands and bringing ideas to life, a career in the skilled trades could be your perfect fit. These roles let you build, design, and repair essential structures and systems, shaping the homes, businesses, and communities around you. From carpentry to electrical work, plumbing to HVAC, skilled trades offer the chance to create something tangible every day while earning competitive pay and building a secure future.

    Build a rewarding future
    through exciting pathways such as:

    • Automation and Robotics

      Design, program, and maintain robots and automated systems.

      Cool Fact: Industrial robots are in high demand, especially in the automotive industry.

    • Carpentry

      Build everything from homes to ornate trim work.

      Hot Tip: “Finish carpenters,” who specialize in detailed woodwork, are in high demand.

    • CNC Precision Machining

      Create precise parts using computer-controlled machines.

      Why It’s Cool: You’ll turn raw materials into intricate, high-tech components.

    • Electrician

      Install and maintain wiring in homes, businesses, and even machinery.

      Specialization: Focus on residential, commercial, or industrial systems.

    • HVAC Technician

      Work on heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in homes, schools, and offices.

      Why It Matters: You’ll help keep buildings comfortable year-round.

    • Industrial Maintenance

      Keep machinery running by installing, repairing, and maintaining equipment.

      In Demand: Knowledge of welding, hydraulics, and electrical systems is key!

    • Plumbing

      Install and maintain pipes for water, drainage, and irrigation.

      Did You Know? Plumbers can also specialize in designing blueprints and systems.

    • Welding

      Join metals using heat, pressure, or cutting-edge tech like lasers.

      Why It’s Awesome: Welding skills are versatile, and you can work in factories, workshops, or construction sites.

      Career Certifications

      Certifications are your gateway to high-demand, high-paying careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades. They demonstrate your commitment, validate your skills, and set you apart in a competitive job market. Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance, earning industry-recognized credentials puts you on the path to a rewarding and secure future.

      Start your journey today and take the first step toward building a career you’ll be proud of!

      Earn Certifications While Still in High School

      Many programs allow you to begin training during high school, helping you graduate career-ready. Starting early gives you a head start on the job market, reduces college debt, and sets you apart from the competition.

      The More You Learn, the More You Earn

      Certification programs are designed to help you grow at every stage of your career. Many offer multiple levels of achievement, allowing you to build on your skills over time. As you complete each level, you not only gain deeper knowledge and hands-on experience but also unlock access to higher-level positions in your field. This progression leads to greater responsibility, increased respect from employers and peers, and higher earning potential. The more you learn, the more valuable you become in the workplace—and the more doors open to a successful and rewarding future.

      Your Future Starts Here

      Hands-on careers are the backbone of our community, and with the right skills and training, you can make a difference while building a great future for yourself. Explore your options, get the training you need, and be ready to join a high-tech, in-demand workforce!

      How to Explore These Careers

      • Find What Fits Your Strengths

        Are you tech-savvy? Try robotics or CNC machining. Love problem-solving? Explore industrial maintenance or HVAC.

      • Learn and Train

        Many jobs require specialized training, so look into local programs or apprenticeships.

      • Talk to Experts

        Reach out to manufacturers or trade professionals to learn about their daily work.