Since its establishment in 1979, PRD Incorporated has subscribed to a “people first” philosophy, having learned that when you focus on each customer, as an individual, putting their needs first, the rest will follow. PRD extends this philosophy to their employees as well, cultivating an honest, family-style atmosphere.
This commitment to people—both customers and employees—exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Employer Innovation Award. This award recognizes an Indiana Uplands employer who seeks creative solutions to talent and workforce development challenges, supports the success of the region’s key sectors, and exemplifies meaningful partnerships with K-12 schools, postsecondary institutions, and/or other employers.
Regional Opportunity Initiatives Vice President of Talent Development Michi McClaine presented the award to PRD and its President Mark Murphy during ROI’s Annual Report to the Region Feb. 18 in French Lick. Murphy accepted the award alongside PRD Operations Manager Curt Deckard and Apprenticeship Mentor Brandon Walker.
The tight tolerance custom injection molder serves customers across the globe from its location in Springville, Indiana. Murphy leads the organization with a commitment to co-developing next-generation talent for the benefit of his organization and other employers in the region. PRD was an early adopter of modern youth apprenticeships, participating as an employer partner in ROI’s UpSkill Work and Learn initiative that offers high school students multi-year, work-based learning experiences.
Taking it a step further, Murphy and PRD are working with stakeholders across the state to explore and design a high-quality work-based learning model for statewide implementation. Murphy, joining other industry representatives and state leaders, visited Switzerland to study the Swiss apprenticeship model.
“He is helping to bring best practices and innovative solutions to Indiana, ensuring that apprenticeship programs are both sustainable and impactful,” McClaine said.
PRD plays a key role in career awareness efforts across Lawrence County as well. By welcoming all eighth-graders to PRD for the annual Lawrence County Manufacturing Day, students are gaining a realistic, first-hand introduction to the manufacturing industry as they explore career possibilities before entering high school.
Murphy also bridges the gap between education and employment with his service on the Grow Lawrence County Advisory Board, a group that brings business, education, and community leaders together in promoting education-to-career pathways that prepare Lawrence County residents for successful careers.
“We are honored to award PRD the Employer Innovation Award for their efforts to advance innovative workforce solutions in Lawrence County, across the region, and at the state-level,” McClaine added.