Tech expansion is great but Indy must diversify, too

The interview with TechPoint CEO Mike Langellier was a good read [Langellier: Many tech firms would be better off here, Jan. 2].

Being in the tech industry myself working specifically on a team that does internet of things-related platforms, I can attest to the benefits of tech and tech industry. But I want to caution us all to make sure that we never double down on one industry again. What I mean by that is we made the huge mistake (as did most of the Rust Belt cities) by over-focusing on everything being manufacturing-centric.

When these types of jobs started to be outsourced and then entirely moved out of the U.S., it had a very obvious impact on our cities including Indy.

We absolutely need to continually diversify the overall job economy of Indy to truly make it anti-fragile for the future. Tech is a fickle industry and it moves in cycles measured in months, not years. It’s extremely competitive and unforgiving as well.

I do, however, think it’s very important to keep expanding the Indy tech industry exactly as this article states. Tech companies and people will bring a much more global reach and image to Indy that it’s never before had. It’ll bring in innovative thinkers, problem solvers and generally people who are thinking more forward and less backwards. It brings in people who are far less risk-adverse as well. These are good things and things Indy sorely needs more of.

We’ve traditionally been extremely risk-adverse and even accused of being a bit backwards thinking. That image is one that needs to go away no matter if it’s true or not and a robust tech industry that’s nationally and internationally known will go a long way in getting us there.

I for one welcome it! Let’s keep pushing the boundaries on what our city is and see what new heights we can achieve together.

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Jim Hodapp