Thomas Snyder, president of Ivy Tech Community College, discusses the Indiana Chamber's recent report, "Preparing Adults for a Brighter Future," Monday morning at 1st Source Bank. Tribune Photo/JIM RIDER
Thomas Snyder, president of Ivy Tech Community College, discusses the Indiana Chamber's recent report, "Preparing Adults for a Brighter Future," Monday morning at 1st Source Bank. Tribune Photo/JIM RIDER

YaVONDA SMALLS, South Bend Tribune Staff Writer

SOUTH BEND -- Like most Midwestern states, Indiana's history is rooted in industries ranging from production to transportation and agriculture.

But today, we're standing at a crossroads.

Sure it's important to embrace the past, officials say, but we must also prepare for the challenges ahead -- many of which highlight the need for a more educated work force.

"If (people) want one of the higher-paying jobs, they're going to need education past high school," said Thomas Snyder, president of Ivy Tech Community College. "We haven't been good about sending that message."