I Can Be That: Life Sciences & Technology Shaping Futures. Sparking Opportunity.

Nap Shots
Feb 11
2 min read

Indianapolis continues to prove why it’s one of the fastest-growing innovation cities in the Midwest.

On February 11, 2026, students from across the city will gather at the 16 Tech Innovation District (1220 Waterway Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46202) for an empowering experience designed to open doors in two of the most impactful industries shaping our future — Life Sciences & Technology.

The “I Can Be That” series isn’t just another career day. It’s an intentional platform created to help young people see themselves in spaces they may have never imagined before.

Why This Matters

We talk a lot about exposure in our community. Exposure changes everything.

When students can:

See professionals who look like them
Hear real career journeys
Experience hands-on skill development
Connect directly with employers

…it shifts what feels possible.

This event is about planting seeds early.

What to Expect

Students attending the Life Sciences & Technology session will participate in:

Start-Up Skills Training – Learning foundational business and innovation principles
Efficiency Training – Understanding systems, workflow, and productivity in real-world environments
Empowerment Activities – Building confidence and leadership skills
Employer Connections – Direct exposure to companies and career pathways

These aren’t surface-level conversations. These are structured, skill-building opportunities that connect education to real careers.

Keynote Speaker: Erika Alexander

The event will feature Erika Alexander — actress, activist, and film director/producer — who brings not only star power, but substance. Her career spans entertainment, activism, and innovation, making her a powerful voice for young people exploring non-traditional and emerging paths.

When students hear from someone who has successfully navigated multiple industries, it reinforces a powerful message:

You don’t have to fit into one box. You can build your own lane.

Powered by Community Support

This initiative is made possible through sponsorship by Humana, with special thanks to EmployIndy, continuing the mission of strengthening Marion County’s workforce pipeline.

When corporations, workforce organizations, and innovation districts collaborate like this, the impact goes far beyond one event. It builds long-term economic opportunity for our city.

Why 16 Tech Is the Perfect Location

Hosting this event at 16 Tech Innovation District is intentional. It places students directly inside an ecosystem where startups, research labs, tech founders, and healthcare innovators operate daily.

Environment matters. Being in the room matters.

When students walk through spaces like 16 Tech, it normalizes success in those industries.

The Bigger Picture

Indianapolis is a life sciences powerhouse — from biotech and healthcare to pharmaceutical innovation. Pair that with our growing tech ecosystem, and the future workforce must be prepared early.

Programs like “I Can Be That” help bridge the gap between:

Curiosity and career
Classroom and corporation
Dream and direction

And that’s the type of ecosystem-building our city needs more of.

Thank you for reading.If you have a positive story to share, an organization to highlight, or simply love uplifting news that brings our community together, we’d love to hear from you.

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