The award highlights a new model for workforce development that links workers, employers, and public funding into one integrated system, converting untapped talent into sustained manufacturing growth

The Northern Indiana Workforce Board (NIWB) has officially named SlateUp as its 2025 Partner of the Year. This honor celebrates a unique collaboration that has moved beyond traditional job matching to build a critical Industrial Interoperability Layer—a digital bridge connecting local talent, advanced manufacturing, and public funding.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260225576824/en/

Robert Merritt, CEO of SlateUp, accepts the 2025 Partner of the Year award from the Northern Indiana Workforce Board (NIWB). This honor celebrates a unique collaboration that has moved beyond traditional job matching to build a critical Industrial Interoperability Layer—a digital bridge connecting local talent, advanced manufacturing, and public funding. SlateUp’s platform functions as the digital "last mile" for workforce resources, delivering results that directly support regional stability and "living wage" goals.

As Indiana faces a persistent gap of 83,000 unfilled manufacturing roles annually, the NIWB sought a solution that did more than list openings; it needed a system to activate the region's human potential. The result is what the NIWB calls a “Human Power Grid,” an infrastructure that turns latent talent into skilled career seekers by providing a transparent "Prosperity GPS" for the local workforce.

A Visionary Journey: From RESEA to Region-Wide Impact

The partnership began with a targeted mission: supporting participants in the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program at the WorkOne office in Elkhart. By providing these job seekers with AI-generated, employer-validated career paths, the NIWB saw a dramatic shift in candidate engagement.

Recognizing the potential for broader regional transformation, the NIWB expanded SlateUp’s role to serve as a Business Services Representative for the entire region. Today, SlateUp is a key part of the NIWB employer-facing strategy, supporting WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) Adult and Dislocated Worker operations by directly connecting local employers with the workforce funds and talent required to fuel their growth.

"We needed to do something different—something more visible and outcome-oriented," said Tom Kavanagh, President & CEO of the Northern Indiana Workforce Board. "SlateUp isn't just a job board; it's a blueprint for one’s professional prosperity. It allows us to show workers clear pathways for promotion and training while helping our local manufacturers access the funding and talent they need to grow. It has become a essential part of our strategy to keep our regional economy competitive."

High-Impact Results for the Region

SlateUp’s platform functions as the digital "last mile" for workforce resources, delivering results that directly support regional stability and "living wage" goals:

• A Commitment to Prosperity: 99% of roles on SlateUp offer wages above $18.00 per hour, with 85% exceeding $20.00 per hour, directly addressing the needs of Hoosiers looking for a path to the middle class.
• High-Intent Engagement: 53% of candidates who create profiles move beyond browsing to actively Express Interest in local careers, while 65% of sign-ups complete full professional profiles—far exceeding industry averages.
• Connection Efficiency: Employers connect with 66% of candidates who express interest, and 82% of those connections convert directly into real-world interviews.
• Proven Retention: Focusing on long-term impact rather than mere activity, SlateUp’s data shows sustained retention rates of over 80% across 3, 6, and 12-month periods.

“This recognition and award from the NIWB means so much to us, especially because it’s really a success story of two organizations that had similar visions, values and desired outcomes for the region,” said Robert Merritt, CEO of SlateUp. “Our partnership with the NIWB proves that when you give workers a clear map of their future—including training and earning potential—they don't just find a job; they find a career. We are building the infrastructure required for regional prosperity and eventually State prosperity."

Backed by the 1842 Fund and Alloy Partners, SlateUp continues to expand its reach and offering across the state of Indiana. This partnership serves as a national model for how public-private collaboration can leverage technology to build a more responsive, leaner workforce system.

About SlateUp

SlateUp is transforming how America’s frontline manufacturing workforce connects with opportunity. Built with a mission to help workers secure fulfilling, long-term careers, SlateUp uses AI-powered matching to connect motivated candidates with employers who offer clear career pathways, invest in training, and prioritize employee growth. By partnering with workforce boards, schools, and community organizations, SlateUp activates local talent, reframes perceptions of manufacturing, and delivers qualified, engaged candidates—not just job applications. Headquartered in Indiana and backed by the 1842 Fund and Alloy Partners, SlateUp is building the next-generation manufacturing workforce and helping employers become true career destinations. Learn more by visiting www.slateup.co.

About Northern Indiana Workforce Board (NIWB)

The NIWB oversees workforce development services in Indiana’s Region 2, including Elkhart, St. Joseph, Marshall, Fulton, and Kosciusko counties. The board connects employers with a skilled workforce and helps residents find meaningful employment through the WorkOne system.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260225576824/en/

"SlateUp isn't just a job board; it's a blueprint for one’s professional prosperity."