Indiana State University (ISU) announced a partnership with GEODIS, a world leader in transport and logistics, for space at “Made @ Plainfield,” a new ISU facility that brings higher education and industry together for teaching, workforce training, and research.
The purpose is to create convenient new opportunities for post-secondary education and, for people currently in the workforce, enhanced skills, and credentialing.
“As Indiana State University continues to deliver on our mission to contribute to the education of our state’s workforce — we really mean that, that’s what we’re all about — this partnership will accelerate our momentum in attaining that goal,” ISU President Dr. Deborah J. Curtis said.
David Brooks, Senior Director of Operations for GEODIS, said it’s exciting to “tie the abilities and opportunities we have at GEODIS with the skillset and teaching they have at ISU.”
ISU calls the space the Logisitics 4.0 Innovation Hub. It will train people in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the management of logistics companies. It is expected that early next year, there will be a mini-prototype of a warehouse using robotics ready for student tours, research, and teaching.
Terry Daugherty, Dean of the Scott College of Business, and Associate Professor Dr. Kuntal Bhattacharyya led ISU’s effort for space at Made @ Plainfield. Curtis also credited Clint Weddle, Executive Director of the ISU Alumni Association, and Dr. Jason Trainer, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management.
The audience included officials from ISU, GEODIS, Hendricks County, the town of Plainfield, and the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce. The event culminated in a ribbon-cutting.
“The most important objective that keeps us tied together in a common bond is the idea of creating the next generation of business leaders,” Bhattacharyya said.
There are other benefits for ISU and its partners. The university expects to offer courses for certificate and degree programs in areas such as MBA, healthcare, cybersecurity, and information technology. The university also expects to conduct meetings in the space.
“I’m here to say, this is just the beginning,” Curtis said. “We’re very excited.”
