About the ROC

The Regional Opportunities Councils (ROC) are unique leadership bodies of the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership that exist to identify and address opportunities to transform Northeast Indiana’s economic competitiveness. Leadership investors serve on the ROC and play a key role in tackling issues that will have a lasting impact on the economic visibility of the region. The ROC functions as a form for building trust and collaboration among regional leaders.

The ROC is made up of three groups focused on specific economic outcomes.

Built Environment

Goal: Capture business development opportunities and increase the region’s transactional capabilities

Mission: Tackle opportunities to expand the region building inventory, developable sites and mega-site, infrastructure and utility access and enhancement, as well as other key factors that will enhance the competitiveness of the product we can market and sell to business attraction prospects.

Vice-Chair: Director of Economic Development at American Electric Power (AEP) Ashley Savieo

New Economy & Innovation

Goal: Foster alignment to accelerate the region’s pursuit of innovation and technology

Mission: Tackle issues regarding innovation promotion, research and development assets, development capacity, industry cluster enhancement and the growth of our knowledge worker economy.

Vice-Chair: President of Indiana Tech Dr. Karl W. Einolf

Workforce Competency & Competitiveness

Goal: Further alignment for job creation and competitive efforts across the region

Mission: Tackle issues regarding workforce availability, skills, talent attraction, development, retention as well as housing issues, education and quality of life enhancements.

Vice-Chair: Vice President of People and Strategy at Fort Wayne Metals Evan Wood

Join Industry Leaders at the Table

“Northeast Indiana has undergone a major transformation in the last decade. As the 11-county region continues this momentum, it’s a rewarding time to operate a business in this thriving area. The business-friendly climate and skilled workforce are why we do business in Northeast Indiana.”

– Mark Millett | Chairman, President and CEO at Steel Dynamics (SDI)