We published hundreds of articles on the LaPorteCounty.Life Business Section this past year. We were there for the new innovations and projects, celebrations, and successes. With so much to choose from, we knew it would be a difficult choice, so we rounded up the best of the best for you!
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Without further ado (and in no particular order), here are the Top 10 business articles from LaPorteCounty.Life in 2019!
A Harley-Davidson of Michigan City Employee Spotlight: Jeff Haggerty
Jeff Haggerty, General Manager at Harley-Davidson of Michigan City, has been with the company since the grand opening of the Valparaiso store back in 1996. While Haggerty oversees the Michigan City store, he also spends part of his days at the Valparaiso location.
Blue Chip debuts brand new expansion to Stardust Event Center
Today marked the grand opening of 45,000 square feet of brand-new event space. The Fremont Ballroom, named after the Las Vegas parent company of Blue Chip Casino, Hotel, & Spa, aims to bring in bigger and better conferences that will boost the reputation and economy of Michigan City as a whole.
Made in La Porte County expo draws in over 2600 students from local schools
This marked the 12th year for the Made in LaPorte County expo as students in grades 6-12 lined up to learn about future job opportunities that are available right in their backyard. Approximately 43 local firms set up booths for around 3000 students and community members in attendance throughout the day. Hats, candy, t-shirts, and lanyards were just a few of the gifts handed out by businesses to get folks over to their booth.
Michigan City and Sullair Hitachi celebrate historic expansion ground-breaking ceremony
It was a historic day at Sullair headquarters in Michigan City, as company employees from all quarters joined city and state officials to celebrate the largest investment project the company has ever undertaken.
Centier Bank Michigan City branch opening celebration honors community service
When Walt Disney designed the original Disneyland Resort, he famously emphasized two central themes— a family-focused experience, and a totally immersive atmosphere. Mike Schrage, President and CEO of Centier Bank, invoked Disney’s vision in his celebratory remarks to the crowd gathered outside the company’s newest Michigan City branch Thursday evening, to illustrate what makes Centier thrive.
In 2015, inventor Mont Handley pitched his product PittMoss on Shark Tank. PittMoss®, a peat moss substitute made from organic additives and recycled paper, netted a deal from three sharks, and Handley launched his business into a full-scale manufacturing plant. Handley now uses his expertise to guide area innovators as associate director and entrepreneur in residence at the Purdue University Northwest (PNW) Commercialization and Manufacturing Excellence Center (CMEC).
Michigan City High School debuts nation's first compressed air curriculum
The 2019-2020 school year marks the official launch of Michigan City High School’s Compressed Air Academy (CAA). The two year program currently serves 45 students and will prepare them for entry-level positions within the compressor/vacuum industry upon graduation. Students will gain 5 Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) certifications and 1 National Center for Construction Education and Resources (NCCER) certification, including a Certified Production Technician (CPT) while also earning up to 6 dual credits as per a partnership with Ivy Tech.
Over $300 million invested in Michigan City throughout 2018
In 2018, the Michigan City area received $305,139,000 in capital investment, an amount of money so huge that it feels a bit abstract. Economic Development Corporation Michigan City (EDCMC) helps local businesses and prospective investors find opportunities in the city, and they broke down what over $300 million means to a community of 32,000 residents.
A Purdue Federal Credit Union Employee Spotlight: Kristine Clark
Kristine Clark, Mortgage Loan Specialist at Purdue Federal Credit Union of Crown Point, had just stepped into her dream role about a month ago, but her path first crossed with the credit union five years prior while doing business at her previous job.
Patrick's Grille provides opportunities for growth to staff members
When you enter a new workplace and begin to fall into the swing of things, you usually are looking to grow within the company and climb up the ladder. At Patrick’s Grille, this window of opportunity is open for the taking by hard-working, driven employees.
