How do we truly prepare students for a future that is constantly evolving? In this episode of The Genius Hour: Voices of Indianapolis, our host (and PPHS AV teacher) Jeff Edge sits down with Ryan Murray, Project Specialist at the Central Indiana Educational Service Center (CIESC), to discuss a groundbreaking initiative: the TIE-IN program (Teacher Industry Experiences in Indiana).

A partnership between CIESC and the Department of Education, TIE-IN was designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. Ryan, a former STEM teacher who transitioned out of the classroom to drive larger-scale impact, shares how he curated immersive, all-day shadowing experiences for educators across the state. We discuss our 2025 journey through the program: visits to WTHR, Visit Indy, Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indiana Fever), and MISO. Ryan's work, as well as the incredible logistical work done by Jessica Martin, made 40+ statewide events possible through the TIE-IN program.

The conversation dives deep into the shifting landscape of Indiana’s talent pool. Ryan highlights how forward-thinking organizations like Endress+Hauser, Gaylor Electric, and MISO are no longer waiting for post-graduation; they are investing in skill-building and talent-identifying from a young age.

We also tackle the "Soft Skills Gap." While schools are traditionally built to assess technical proficiency, industries are sending a clear message: We can teach the technical skills, but we need you to teach the soft skills. From the future of AI in broadcasting to the necessity of intentional collaboration, this episode is a must-listen for educators, industry leaders, and students alike.

Student Credits:

1. Audio Engineer: Nat
2. Producer: Annie