Ports of Indiana and Indiana University Southeast launch port internship to boost state logistics workforce

Jeffersonville pilot program will immerse IU Southeast students in Ohio River port’s transportation, logistics, and agribusiness operations with multiple companies

Ports of Indiana and Indiana University Southeast have partnered to launch a logistics internship to support local workforce needs and introduce college students to port operations. In May, the program’s first intern, Jonas Powers, will begin a 15-week internship, gaining hands-on experience in transportation, logistics, agribusiness, warehousing, and port operations.

Ports of Indiana operates three ports, which support 50,000 jobs and generate $8.7 billion in annual economic impact for the state. This pilot program will be expanded to offer internships in multiple port locations through university partnerships designed to meet Indiana’s growing logistics workforce needs.

Powers is a second-year student from Corydon, Ind., majoring in Supply Chain Management. During the internship, he will work with Ports of Indiana and four port companies that play a key role in Indiana’s global trade and freight logistics.

“Indiana’s logistics industry depends on a strong workforce, and that starts by helping young people see the exciting career opportunities available in our ports and supply chains,” said Jody Peacock, CEO for Ports of Indiana. “Through our partnership with IU Southeast, we can introduce students to high-demand careers while raising awareness of the vital roles ports play in connecting Indiana businesses to global markets and driving long-term economic growth.”

Indiana University Southeast, located in New Albany, offers top quality and nationally accredited programs and has a track record of strong student outcomes—with 99 percent of graduates going on to employment or graduate school. The partnership reflects the university’s commitment to connecting students with meaningful professional opportunities in the region.

“IU Southeast is excited to partner with Ports of Indiana and offer our students this valuable internship experience,” said Dr. Debbie Ford, Chancellor of Indiana University Southeast. “Partnerships like this create powerful opportunities for our students to connect their classroom learning with real-world experience. By working alongside respected employers, our students gain valuable professional skills while strengthening the talent pipeline that helps our regional economy grow.”

The maritime industry employs 650,000 workers in the U.S., and one out of every five Indiana jobs is related to logistics. In addition, Ports of Indiana is advancing significant job growth initiatives, investing in a $100 million capital program, and developing new multimodal terminals at all three ports on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan.