Gov. Braun increases wages through Power Up Indiana with expanded CDL training and career advancement

 Governor Mike Braun is helping Hoosiers advance into higher-skilled, higher-paying roles through Power Up Indiana by incentivizing employers to use commercial driver’s license (CDL) training programs.

“Growing wages by growing skills helps workers, their families, businesses and the community,” said Gov. Braun. “Power Up Indiana shows how employer-led training upskills Hoosiers, connecting people to in-demand work while supporting business needs across the state.”

Through Power Up Indiana, Gov. Braun is ensuring employers have the workforce pipeline they need to keep the Hoosier economy thriving, helping businesses offset the cost of training and credentialing programs that lead to increased earnings, career advancement and stronger employee retention. To qualify for state funding, employers must also show that employees receiving the training earn raises of at least 10% - guaranteeing that Power Up dollars are driving higher wages.

Hydromax Services is a Power Up company whose employees earn CDLs through training delivered in partnership with Ivy Tech Community College. Participants receive hands-on instruction focused on vehicle inspection standards, Department of Transportation requirements and field operations, helping crews work safer and more efficiently across projects and service lines.

FF-DFI Transport, a wholly owned subsidiary of Delco Foods, is using Power Up Indiana support for a CDL development pathway to advance employees from driver-helper positions into professional driving careers. Employees first gain hands-on experience before receiving support as they earn their CDL credentials. Approximately half of the company’s current drivers have advanced through this CDL development pathway, helping FF-DFI Transport address workforce needs while strengthening safety, retention and professional growth.

C&R Construction employees earn CDLs that allow them to take on additional responsibilities, safely operate commercial vehicles and remain employed during seasonal slowdowns by qualifying for a broader range of work. For their growing company of approximately 60 employees, Power Up Indiana helps offset training costs while supporting employee advancement and business growth.

Together, these employers demonstrate how Gov. Braun, through Power Up Indiana, advances targeted, employer-led training to create safer workplaces, help Hoosiers move into better-paying careers and give Indiana businesses the skilled workforce they need to grow.

To learn more about Power Up Indiana, visit powerup.dwd.in.gov.