INDOT Training Gap Analysis, Developing a Training Program for INDOT Workforce Development (New, Front-Line, Supervisors) and Smart Tool for Effective Planning for Workforce

Authors

• Steven R. Dunlop, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Satish V. Ukkusuri, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Yunfeng Chen, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Dutt J. Thakkar, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Eunhan Ka, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Shagun Mittal, Purdue University
• Xinran Hu, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Ze Wang, Purdue UniversityFollow
• Isha Khanna, Purdue University
• Rithesh Tammineni, Purdue University

Abstract

The primary goal of the study was to understand reasons for workforce turnover, addressing INDOT’s employee attraction and retention strategies. This objective was achieved by dividing the project into four tasks, each focusing on different criteria. Task A focused on understanding workforce development needs and gaps by determining training opportunities available at INDOT and understanding the different training methods and frequency of training required. Additionally, Task A also benchmarked workforce development programs with industry and other neighboring states. Task B comprised performing a comprehensive numerical and text data analysis of the workforce using exit interview data to identify the reasons contributing to workforce turnover at INDOT. Task C and D focused on developing a survey instrument to identify workforce development needs for current staff and develop a technical program for the employees based on feedback. The study concluded that INDOT needs to address different demographics with different needs to tackle the broader challenges surrounding workforce development. The employee survey also highlighted the employee sentiment and preferences which INDOT needs to take into consideration. These findings result into recommendation of specific actions that address the main factors affecting workforce turnover and steps that INDOT can take to attract and retain its employees.

Keywords

attraction, retention, training, survey, workforce development

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JTRP-2026/12

SPR Number

4806

Sponsoring Organization

Indiana Department of Transportation

Performing Organization

Joint Transportation Research Program

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, Indiana

Date of Version

2026

DOI

10.5703/1288284318620

Recommended Citation

Dunlop, S. R., Ukkusuri, S. V., Chen, Y., Thakkar, D. J., Ka, E., Mittal, S., Hu, X., Wang, Z., Khanna, I., & Tammineni, R. (2026). INDOT training gap analysis, developing a training program for INDOT workforce development (new, front-line, supervisors) and smart tool for effective planning for workforce (Joint Transportation Research Program Publication No. FHWA/IN/JTRP-2026/12). West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University. https://doi.org/10.5703/1288284318620