See Yourself IN Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics: Making and Moving the Future

Do you enjoy tinkering with things or working with technology? Do you like to solve problems and see the impact of your efforts in real time? If you’re interested in creating products that people use every day or making sure goods are delivered quickly and efficiently, a career in advanced manufacturing and logistics could be for you!

What is advanced manufacturing and logistics?

Advanced manufacturing and logistics, or AML is the integration of cutting-edge technology, automation, and data-driven processes to efficiently produce, manage, and transport goods from raw materials to finished products. AML is about making and moving goods faster, smarter, and more sustainably.
AML is essential to daily life. Nearly everything we use – our cars, cell phones, clothing, food packaging, and even medicine – comes from a manufacturing facility before being transported through logistics networks.
The advancements in technology within this industry offer an exciting plethora of career path options for problem-solvers, innovators, and those who enjoy hands-on work.

Why choose a career in advanced manufacturing and logistics?

If you like working with technology, solving problems, or figuring out how things are made and delivered, a career in Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics (AML) could be a great fit. Indiana is a national leader in this industry, with manufacturing alone contributing over $100 billion to the economy and employing one in five people in the state. Logistics is just as important—it keeps products moving efficiently from factories to stores, warehouses, and even your doorstep. Careers in AML offer hands-on work, cutting-edge technology, and plenty of room to grow. Whether you’re designing smart factories, working with robotics, or helping products get where they need to go, this industry has high-paying, in-demand jobs that can lead to a strong and stable future. Plus, as technology advances, there are more exciting opportunities than ever to get involved and make an impact!

Career Paths in Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics

With 1 in 5 Hoosiers working in the advanced manufacturing and logistics industry, there are a number of interesting jobs out there that you may not have considered. Here’s a look at a few:

• 3D Printing Technician – Work with 3D printers to create parts and products for industries like aerospace, healthcare, and automotive.
• Automation Technician – Install, repair, and maintain robotic and automated systems in factories and warehouses.
• Aviation Mechanic – Inspect and repair aircraft to keep planes flying safely and efficiently.
• Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machinist – Program and operate high-tech machines that shape metal, plastic, and other materials.
• Cybersecurity Analyst – Protect manufacturing systems and supply chains from cyber threats.
• Drones & Robots Technician – Build, program, and maintain drones and robots used in warehouses and manufacturing plants.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) Technician – Work on the production and maintenance of elective cars, batteries, and charging stations.
• Industrial Designer – Create and design new products, tools, and equipment using a mix of creativity and engineering.
• Industrial Engineer – Improve factory processes to make manufacturing more efficient, cost-effective, and safe.
• Logistics Coordinator – Plan and organize how goods are moved from suppliers to customers.
• Manufacturing Engineer – Develop and improve processes that turn raw materials into finished products.
• Mechatronics Technician – Work with machines and combine mechanics, electronics, and software to perform automated tasks.
• Packaging Engineer – Design packaging that protects products while being sustainable and cost-effective.
• Robotics Engineer – Design and build robots used in manufacturing and logistics (or other industries!).
• Route Optimization Specialist – Use technology to plan the most efficient delivery routes for goods and services.
• Supply Chain Analyst – Analyze data to help companies move products more efficiently.
• Sustainability Manager – Help companies reduce waste and improve energy efficiency.
• Welding Technician – Use advanced welding techniques to join metals in industries like aerospace, automotive, and construction.

Visit Conexus Indiana's Make IN Move to explore more careers in life sciences!

How to get there:

If you’re interested in a career in advanced manufacturing and logistics, there are many ways to gain experience and build the skills needed for success. Taking courses in STEM, computer science, engineering, or business can help lay the foundation, while hands-on learning through career and technical education (CTE) programs—such as robotics, automation, or supply chain management—can provide real-world experience. Internships, apprenticeships, and job-shadowing opportunities with manufacturing companies, logistics firms, or distribution centers are great ways to explore potential career paths.
Earning certifications in areas like CNC machining, welding, or logistics operations can help you develop in-demand skills and stand out to employers. For those looking to continue their education, degree programs in engineering, manufacturing technology, supply chain management, or business logistics offer pathways to leadership roles and specialized careers within the industry. No matter your interests, there’s a way to get involved in this fast-growing field and start building a future in advanced manufacturing and logistics.

Make IN Move

Make IN Move is a career exploration program by Conexus Indiana, designed to introduce young students to the AML industry. This program, designed for middle and high school students, helps teach, inspire, and motivate people like you to pursue a career in one of Indiana’s top advanced industries. Discover jobs in the tech world of advanced manufacturing and logistics, and explore possible job paths that are exciting, innovative, and creative.

Conexus Indiana

Conexus Indiana also offers a number of other entry points to the AML sector. Catapult Indiana enables high school students to explore real-world problems in AML through a 160-hour program of classroom and hands-on work. Conexus Student Industries offer students an opportunity to run a student-led business, empowering you with real-world stills, access to industry pros, and a chance to explore careers in a high-tech, high demand field.

Click here to visit Conexus Indiana and learn more about these opportunities.

Do you see yourself in advanced manufacturing and logistics?

From cars to campers, jet engines to life-saving medicines, popcorn to chocolate, Indiana companies make and move things that change the world.

The world of manufacturing and logistics is changing rapidly, with automation, AI, and sustainability shaping the future of these industries. This means more opportunities than ever before for those ready to embrace technology, problem-solving, and efficiency. If you like working with your hands, solving problems, or making sure things run smoothly, AML might be the perfect field for you. Indiana’s strong industry presence and numerous training programs make it easier than ever to get started. Whether you’re interested in engineering, robotics, logistics strategy, or supply chain management, there’s a place for you in AML!