Evansville, IN (May 16, 2025) – The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership’s (E-REP) Talent Program Manager, Kaylie Pruiett, has been named to Conexus Indiana’s Rising 30 Class of 2025 for her work in advanced manufacturing and logistics. Conexus recently announced the fifth annual Rising 30, an exclusive group of young professionals making significant early-career contributions to Indiana’s advanced manufacturing and logistics sectors.
The Rising 30 program, presented by Purdue University, continues Conexus Indiana’s commitment to strengthening and promoting Indiana’s vital manufacturing and logistics ecosystem. These honorees represent exceptional talent under the age of 30 who are already reshaping Indiana’s largest industry sector and will lead it into the next era of innovation.
As E-REP’s Talent Program Manager, Kaylie leads the Tri-State Manufacturers’ Alliance (TSMA), Family Business Alliance (FBA), Young Professionals Alliance (YPA), and Business Retention and Expansion Program (BR&E). Strengthening the Evansville-area manufacturing sector is at the heart of these initiatives – a mission Kaylie has not only embraced wholeheartedly, but one in which she has excelled, despite entering the role without a manufacturing background.
Described as a quick learner by her supervisors, she has made a tangible impact by uniting the local manufacturing community and expanding regional knowledge of automation, lean manufacturing, supply chain, and finance. In the past year alone, Kaylie launched TSMA’s first regional summit and helped train over 200 local manufacturing employees through targeted industry partnerships.
“Kaylie is truly deserving of this recognition,” said Lloyd Winnecke, President and CEO of E-REP. “Her intense focus, sincere desire to learn and grow, and natural ability to connect with others make her an exceptional asset to our region. Kaylie is a rising star, and we are proud to have her at E-REP.”
“I’m thrilled to congratulate Kaylie Pruiett on her selection to Conexus Indiana’s Rising 30 Class of 2025,” said Welborn Baptist Foundation Program Officer Tyler Stock, who nominated Kaylie for the recognition. “Kaylie is a true servant leader, and I’ve seen firsthand how she builds genuine relationships with those around her. She’s always looking for ways to make a meaningful impact, especially for our local manufacturing and logistics partners. Kaylie’s passion and dedication are an inspiration to young professionals, and she sets an incredible example for all of us.”
The 2025 honorees span a wide range of specialties – from engineering and operations to research and development, technical services and strategic leadership. They represent organizations ranging from established global corporations, emerging startups, and local family businesses distributed throughout Indiana’s manufacturing hubs from South Bend to Jeffersonville.
Rising 30 candidates are nominated by their employer or an industry representative, and winners are selected based on their career accomplishments to date. In the coming year, the Rising 30 honorees will participate in Conexus Indiana’s work by serving as thought leaders on topics including technology adoption and workforce development.
“When I visit our manufacturing facilities across Indiana, I’m always struck by the ingenuity of our young talent,” said Jay Wirts, President and CEO of Conexus Indiana. “These Rising 30 honorees aren’t just building products – they’re building the future of Hoosier manufacturing and ensuring our families and communities thrive. Each one of them represents why Indiana continues to strengthen its position as a global manufacturing and logistics powerhouse for generations to come.”
The 2025 Rising 30 honorees were honored during a special event on Thursday, May 15, in downtown Indianapolis. To view bios of each honoree, visit www.conexusindiana.com/rising-30. Nominations will open for the 2026 class in November.
About Conexus Indiana
Conexus Indiana, a branded initiative of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), is dedicated to advancing the Hoosier State’s position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics. Working closely with industry, academia, and government partners, Conexus Indiana drives workforce development, economic growth, and innovation across the state. For more information, please visit ConexusIndiana.com.