Upskilling Takes Off: How Saab Builds Talent and Technology in Indiana

Saab’s Indiana journey began in 2013 when the aerospace innovator partnered with Boeing to develop the T-7A Red Hawk, a next-generation trainer jet for the U.S. Air Force. By 2019, the contract was awarded, and in 2020, Saab broke ground on its state-of-the-art facility in West Lafayette, right across from Purdue University. Today, the West Lafayette facility employs over 200 people and continues to grow.

As a global business, Saab focuses on building products and technologies that protect people and society. In Indiana, that mission translates into producing the aft section of the T-7A fuselage in partnership with Boeing. “We believe in blending Swedish technology and quality with American ambition and cost efficiency,” said Robert Ulibarri, Vice President and General Manager of Saab’s West Lafayette site.

Upskilling has been part of Saab’s DNA since day one. The company launched its training academy in 2021 and later partnered with Ivy Tech to accredit its programs. “We wanted to grow talent locally and provide a pathway for employees to advance their careers,” explained LeAnne Brown, Human Resources Manager at Saab. The program includes an eight-to-ten-week academy and opportunities for employees to earn technical certificates and even associate degrees, all supported by tuition reimbursement.

The benefits have been significant. Saab has created internal progression maps, enabling employees to move into advanced roles in engineering and quality. Several success stories highlight how team members with little aerospace experience have become technical experts. “You can come into Saab with very limited experience, and we’ll invest in you,” said Ulibarri. This approach has boosted retention and built a highly skilled, future-ready workforce.

For employees like Jesse McCallister, Specialist Assembler, the program has been transformative: “I was initially drawn to the opportunity Saab offered because the products we manufacture align with my military background and experience. The Saab STEP program has helped me establish a foundation for personal growth and career advancement. Learning how to approach situations in different ways provides me with the competence and confidence needed for me and the company to succeed. New situations bring new opportunities, and new roles for me to step into. As Saab expands into new sectors, we solidify our solidarity in keeping people and society safe, and I appreciate the opportunity to grow with a company that invests in its people.”

While wage increases vary by role, earning certifications and new skills opens doors to higher paying positions and leadership opportunities. Beyond compensation, the program has reshaped company culture by creating an environment where employees see a future, not just a job. It has attracted veterans and fostered long term careers in advanced manufacturing. “It’s not just a job; it’s a career,” Brown emphasized.

Building that kind of culture does not happen by chance. It is the result of intentional investment in people. Saab encourages other companies to view upskilling as a strategic advantage. “There isn’t a one size fits all approach, but if you want to remain competitive and attract top talent, you need to customize a process that meets your business needs,” said Ulibarri. For Saab, partnering with local institutions and workforce organizations was essential, creating a win-win for employees and the company.

As Saab continues to deliver cutting-edge defense technology, its commitment to workforce development ensures that Indiana remains a hub for innovation and opportunity.

To learn more about Saab, visit saabinc.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.