SEI READI Celebrates $3M Investment in the Southeast Career Center

The investment will help SCC update aging infrastructure

File photo.

(Versailles, Ind.) - The Southeast Career Center (SCC) received $3 million through the State of Indiana’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 2.0 to support a major modernization of its facility and strengthen career and technical education opportunities for students throughout Southeast Indiana.

The project was approved through SEI READI, the regional development entity representing Ripley, Dearborn, Franklin, Ohio, Switzerland, and Union counties.

The investment will help SCC update aging infrastructure, improve instructional spaces and expand its provision of hands-on training aligned with the workforce needs of regional employers. Modernizing the facility will allow SCC to continue providing students with real-world technical experience while preparing a stronger workforce of skilled workers for high-demand industries across the region.

Each year, approximately 400 students earn credentials and certificates through programs spanning construction, manufacturing, healthcare, culinary arts, cosmetology, media, public safety, transportation and technology. SCC serves students from communities both within and beyond the SEI READI region, including Batesville, East Central, Jac-Cen-Del, Jennings County, Lawrenceburg, Milan, Rising Sun, South Dearborn, South Ripley, Southwestern, and Switzerland County. 

SCC Director Ms. Bear stated, “The $3 million READI 2.0 grant is a tremendous investment in the future of SCC and the students and communities we serve. This funding will allow us to strengthen and expand career and technical education opportunities, ensuring our students have access to high-quality training that prepares them for the workforce needs of our region.”

Barry Lauber, SEI READI Board Member representing Ripley County added, “The SCC has long been a cornerstone for high school students in SE Indiana to learn trade skills and get hands on training in a field of their choice — preparing them to enter the workforce upon graduation. The READI 2.0 grant being awarded to SCC not only helps with upgrades and improvements to the existing facility, but it’s also a way to acknowledge and say ‘thank you’ to the many administrators, teachers, and the business partners in our region who have invested time and resources over the years to provide this unique educational opportunity to hundreds of students.”

“We celebrate with the SCC as they strengthen their region’s workforce development infrastructure and offerings. This is an important investment in the people and quality of life in Southeast Indiana, and we’re excited to be a part of it,” said Vice President, Regional Development for Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) Jim Rawlinson. This investment represents more than an improvement to a single facility, as it is an investment in the future workforce and economic competitiveness of Southeast Indiana. By expanding access to modern career and technical education, the Southeast Career Center will continue to connect students with in-demand skills, while helping regional employers build the talent base they need to grow and succeed. The project reflects the power of regional collaboration and reinforces a shared commitment to creating long-term opportunities for students, businesses, and communities throughout Southeast Indiana