September 7, 2026
Dear Hoosier Worker,
Our state’s greatest asset is you. We are experiencing incredible growth across Indiana because
companies see our workforce, our culture and our commonsense approach to doing business and want to
grow here or put down roots. As we begin Labor Day weekend, I want to thank the millions of Hoosiers
who make Indiana the Midwest’s growth engine.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, our unemployment rate (3.3%) is below the national average
(4.1%), including one of the nation’s lowest veteran unemployment rates (1.7%). Registered apprentices
are at an all-time high and more Hoosiers are looking to reenter the labor force. In fact, Indiana’s labor
force participation rate (63.1%) is surpassing the national average (61.4%), proving what we all know:
that Hoosiers aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves.
Across the country, Hoosiers are known for our hospitality and honesty, but it’s our work ethic that
has made Indiana a national destination for great jobs.
Companies from around the world are choosing Indiana, and businesses already here are doubling down
because they know the value of our workforce. Rolls-Royce just invested $1 billion in its Indiana
manufacturing operations. Caterpillar is investing $890 million in Lafayette and another $5 million to
train and upskill workers. Do it Best is bringing True Value’s headquarters to Fort Wayne. And HysterYale is moving 350 jobs from Illinois to Avon. These investments mean great jobs for Hoosier workers
and a better life for Hoosier families.
Indiana is a state that respects hard work, and I am leading by example by creating a workplace in state
government that allows Hoosiers to succeed in the office and at home. I expanded paid family leave,
allowed new parents to bring babies to work through our Family First Workplace pilot program, and
provided special paid leave to those whose homes were devastated by recent severe storms.
This Labor Day, I hope you take pride in what you are building. Our policies can create the
conditions for growth, but it’s your skill, work ethic and experience that power Indiana’s economy. I’ll
keep working to make sure that growth means better jobs, bigger paychecks and more opportunity for you
and your family.
Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend.
Governor Mike Braun
