Building Indiana’s Future: Freitag-Weinhardt Invests in Skills and Careers

For more than 140 years, Freitag-Weinhardt has helped power Indiana’s economy as a trusted industrial and mechanical contractor headquartered in Terre Haute, Indiana. Serving critical sectors such as life sciences, power generation, and advanced manufacturing, the Indiana-based company relies on a highly skilled workforce to deliver complex projects that support Indiana’s growth.

That reliance has sharpened Freitag-Weinhardt’s focus on workforce development. Through long-standing apprenticeship partnerships and a deliberate approach to upskilling, the company is strengthening its talent pipeline to meet current and future employer demand.

“Our success is directly tied to the skills and dedication of our employees,” said Stephen Snyder, a member of Freitag-Weinhardt’s leadership team. “Investing in workforce development allows us to remain competitive while supporting Indiana’s broader economic growth.”

Like many Indiana employers, Freitag-Weinhardt is navigating a changing workforce shaped by retirements and increased demand for skilled labor. Registered apprenticeship programs – structured, earn-while-you-learn pathways delivered through trade associations – remain central to the company’s strategy, preparing individuals for high-wage, in-demand careers in the skilled trades.

“Our primary focus is attracting younger talent into the trades and into apprenticeship programs,” Snyder said. “These pathways are essential to maintaining safety, quality, and productivity on job sites.”

At the same time, Freitag-Weinhardt recognizes that workforce development must extend beyond the job site. Project managers, engineers, quality professionals, and accounting staff all play critical roles in delivering large-scale projects and meeting client expectations.

To support growth across the organization, the company invests in continuous learning through internal mentorship, partnerships with Ivy Tech Community College, engagement with Purdue University, and professional development opportunities through organizations such as the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA).

“We have a culture of shared responsibility and learning,” Snyder said. “Upskilling allows our employees to grow professionally while strengthening our business.”

That approach is reflected in the advancement of Richard Taylor, Freitag-Weinhardt’s Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QAQC) Manager. Through specialized training and certification supported by Ivy Tech partnerships, Taylor developed expertise in boiler and pressure vessel inspection – enabling the company to expand its service capabilities, support internal succession planning, and grow new revenue streams.

“This was a clear win for the employee and the company,” Snyder said. “It allowed us to retain institutional knowledge while expanding our capacity to serve clients.”

Freitag-Weinhardt’s workforce strategy has produced measurable results aligned with Indiana’s broader economic and workforce development goals. Strong retention across skilled trades and professional roles, competitive wages tied to advanced skills, and expanded service offerings have positioned the company for sustained growth–while supporting long-term projects critical to Indiana’s economy.

“Workforce development is an ongoing effort,” Snyder said. “By continuing to invest in our people, we’re positioning our company and Indiana’s workforce for long-term success.”

Through apprenticeship, upskilling, and strategic partnerships, Freitag-Weinhardt demonstrates how investing in people fuels business performance and help build Indiana’s future.

To learn more about Freitag-Weinhardt, visit freitaginc.com.

Power Up Indiana is a new incentive program rewarding employers to grow wages, build stronger teams, and turn talent development into a long-term business advantage. To learn more about Power Up Indiana, visit powerup.dwd.in.gov.