The Lawrence County Economic Growth Council (LCEGC) continues to play a key role in building a resilient local economy. As a non-profit local economic development organization based in Bedford, the council focuses on supporting businesses through startup guidance, workforce training, and strategic investments that benefit the community. With roots in industries like stone quarrying, automotive manufacturing, and defense, Lawrence County—often called the "Limestone Capital of the World"—relies on the LCEGC to navigate modern challenges and opportunities.
Established to enhance the quality of life for residents, the council operates with a collaborative approach. Its Workforce Coalition addresses education, career pathways, and job satisfaction, bringing together employers, educators, and community leaders. Governed by a diverse Board of Directors that includes elected officials, business executives, and local representatives, the LCEGC emphasizes business retention, expansion, and attraction while prioritizing workforce development and community enhancement.
A Year of Transition and Achievement
2025 has been a period of positive momentum for the LCEGC, marked by a smooth leadership transition and tangible results in economic and workforce initiatives. In April, former CEO Shance Sizemore stepped down after nearly a decade of service, paving the way for Dan Bortner to assume the role in July. Bortner, who also leads the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, brings a fresh perspective to ongoing projects, ensuring continuity in the council's efforts.
Among the council's recent highlights is national recognition for its workforce programs. In July, Director of Career Development Joe Timbrook presented the "Building Rural Community Learning Systems" model at the Federal Reserve Bank's Policy Summit in Cleveland, Ohio, showcasing effective strategies for rural workforce reentry and education. This acknowledgment underscores the council's practical approach to addressing local needs.
The Introduction to Local Jobs and Skills (ILJAS) program stands out as a core success, having helped over 250 individuals gain trade skills through partnerships with more than 35 organizations, grants, and the judicial system. With a 90% completion rate and low recidivism, ILJAS demonstrates the value of targeted, community-based training.
Economic indicators reflect these efforts: Lawrence County's unemployment ranking has improved from second-worst to 34th out of Indiana's 92 counties. Since 2016, average wages have increased by 78.5%, and real GDP has risen by 18.4%, supported by investments from defense firms like SAIC, TRISTAR, Bowhead, Barbaricum, and Tri-County Steel. Additionally, the council secured $70,000 in grants for community projects and $5,000 from Duke Energy, bolstering development activities. In October, the LCEGC joined National Manufacturing Day events, engaging nearly 400 students to highlight local career opportunities in manufacturing.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Growth and Community Focus
Under Bortner's guidance, the LCEGC is advancing a new 3- to 5-year strategic plan, initiated earlier this year to adapt to post-COVID realities such as remote work, automation, and artificial intelligence. The plan builds on past gains, aiming to leverage defense sector strengths, address population trends, and draw new residents to support local businesses. Implementation is progressing, with an emphasis on equipping companies with tools for technological adaptation.
Workforce expansion remains a priority, with plans to secure more sponsorships for programs like ILJAS to fill skills gaps and establish Lawrence County as a model for rural development. Community projects, including the New Lawrence Town Center, are underway to attract businesses, housing, and recreational amenities, enhancing the area's appeal. Explorations into renewable energy and innovative sectors further signal a forward-thinking agenda.
Dedicated Leadership Team
The council's progress is supported by a capable staff and board. Key staff members include:
- Dan Bortner, CEO (dbortner@lawrencecountygrowth.com)
- Joe Timbrook, Director of Career Development (joe@lawrencecountygrowth.com)
- Cathy Bullington, Adult Education Coordinator (cathy@lawrencecountygrowth.com)
- Cierra Murphy, Office Coordinator (info@lawrencecountygrowth.com)
The Executive Board features experienced leaders such as Larry Bailey (I.U. Health Bedford Hospital), Wally Branham (Lawrence County Commissioner Appointee), Don Caudell (Mayor, City of Mitchell), and others including Victoria Dinges (Smithville Fiber), Liz Irwin (Duke Energy), and Nick Webb (Hoosier Hills Credit Union).
The full board expands this with representatives like Alex Barnes (WF Meyers), Tonya Chastain (Lawrence County Tourism), Dr. Brent Comer (Mitchell Community Schools), and many more from sectors including education, finance, and manufacturing.
For more details on the LCEGC's initiatives, visit lawrencecountygrowth.com or reach out to their team. As Southern Indiana evolves, the council's steady, collaborative work positions Lawrence County for continued economic stability and growth.
