INDIANAPOLIS (July 30, 2026) – The Annex Group®, a leading impact housing developer that creates affordable, workforce, and purpose-built student housing, today announces a partnership with McKenzie Center for Innovation and Technology to expand hands-on learning and career development opportunities through Annex University.
Designed to support intentional career pathing, Annex University provides access to experiential training, applied learning, and professional development opportunities for individuals seeking to improve their lives through stable employment and long-term career growth. The program was built on the belief that true engagement, productivity, and success come from individuals understanding how they can grow both professionally and personally. The current applied learning opportunities associated with Annex University include internship programs, a partnership with the Orr Fellowship, and partnership with McKenzie Center for Field Operations Associates.
“Providing access to meaningful career experiences is central to the mission of ANNEX University,” said Chad Mann, Vice President of Learning and Development. “By partnering with the McKenzie Center and connecting individuals with meaningful career experiences, we’re investing in future talent and creating a positive impact that extends beyond the workplace.”
McKenzie Center for Innovation and Technology offers a diverse selection of career pathways for students from the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township, aligning with Annex University’s goal to reach entry-level workers. The innovative learning center provides opportunities to earn college credits, industry certifications, and participate in work-based learning experiences. Each curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of high-demand fields, including construction.
“At the McKenzie Center for Innovation & Technology, we believe the best learning happens when students can apply their skills in authentic workplace settings," said Dr. Shawn A. Smith, Superintendent of Schools. "This partnership with The Annex Group gives our students an opportunity to turn classroom learning into meaningful career experience while building the technical and professional skills employers are looking for. We're proud to work alongside industry partners who are investing in the next generation of Indiana's workforce.”
The program’s impact is already taking shape through the addition of Miguel Perez and Uziel Ortiz, who joined The Annex Group as Construction Field Operations Associates and participants within Annex University’s applied learning program. Identified through the McKenzie Center’s construction pathway, taught by Aaron Cain, and selected following a comprehensive interview process, Perez and Ortiz will receive direct training, mentorship, and exposure to multifamily construction operations, creating a foundation for long-term success in the industry. The opportunity is a paid, two-year program.
“The Field Operations Associate opportunity within Annex University reflects our belief in investing in the growth of our team members who ultimately are the ones that make a lasting difference in the communities we serve,” said Paul Nieckula, Director of Construction and Employee Development.
For more information about Annex University and other applied learning opportunities, reach out to Chad Mann, Vice President of Learning and Development, at [email protected].
ABOUT THE ANNEX GROUP®
The Annex Group® is a leading impact housing developer that creates affordable, workforce, and purpose-built student housing communities. With a focus on providing innovative, amenitized housing in emerging markets throughout the United States, The Annex Group is headquartered in Fishers, Indiana. To learn more about The Annex Group, visit www.theannexgrp.com or follow them on Facebook and LinkedIn.
ABOUT ANNEX UNIVERSITY
Annex University is designed for individuals seeking an opportunity to improve their lives through stable employment, skill building, and long-term career growth.
ABOUT THE METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP
The fifth-largest school district in the state, the MSD of Lawrence Township serves approximately 17,000 students across four Early Learning Centers, eleven Elementary Schools, two Middle Schools, two High Schools, a Center for Innovation and Technology, and an alternative setting high school. Lawrence Township strives to be the district of destination, a reputation built over the years based on the district’s award-winning staff, accomplished administrators, high-achieving students, supportive community, and innovative educational programs.