Gov. Braun announces Indiana Economic Development Corporation president, “Crossroads of America” adoption

Tuesday, Indiana Governor Mike Braun announced the state will embrace the Crossroads of America motto.

“Indiana is proud to be the geographic Crossroads of America, and we are also proud to be at the crossroads of the nation’s leading industries, such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences, motorsports, and defense,” said Governor Mike Braun. “We will look for opportunities to lean into this identity and incorporate it into our work.”

Governor Braun also announced the appointment of Josh Richardson as president of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), effective immediately.

As president of the IEDC, Richardson will oversee the state’s efforts to strengthen workforce alignment and support both the attraction of new businesses and the growth of existing employers through region-led planning.

“Josh brings a rare combination of economic insight and workforce experience,” said Governor Mike Braun. “He understands that growth starts with people—and that the best way to strengthen Indiana’s economy is to make sure our employers, universities, and regional leaders are all moving in the same direction. I have full confidence in his ability to continue driving the state’s momentum and to create lasting opportunity for Hoosiers.”

Richardson most recently served as Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD), where he led statewide initiatives to connect Hoosiers to training and high-wage employment, emphasizing employer-led upskilling, data-driven policy, and partnerships that prepare Indiana’s workforce for the demands of a modern economy.

Mike Smith, who has served as Chief Financial Officer of DWD, will assume the role of Interim Commissioner to ensure continuity in the agency’s operations and its ongoing focus on developing talent and supporting employers statewide.

“Indiana’s success has always come from its regions—from leaders who know their communities best and who build growth from the ground up,” said David J. Adams, Secretary of Commerce. “Josh understands the direct connection between talent and industry growth better than anyone. His leadership will ensure that the IEDC continues to support region-led partnerships that grow wages, strengthen productivity, and attract people and investment to Indiana.”

A native of Blackford County, Richardson earned his undergraduate degree from Ball State University and his law degree from the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law.