Throughout this series, Forge ECI is highlighting East Central Indiana entrepreneurs featured in the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication and the 10th edition of Livability East Central Indiana. Each story celebrates the innovators, problem-solvers, and business leaders whose work strengthens our regional economy and showcases the entrepreneurial spirit that makes East Central Indiana a great place to build a business.

Innovation often begins with a simple question: How can we make this better?

For entrepreneur Susan Carlock that question has shaped an impressive career leading not one, but two successful manufacturing-related companies in East Central Indiana. Her story is featured in the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication, recognizing entrepreneurs whose ideas and leadership are strengthening Indiana’s economy.

Carlock’s work demonstrates how entrepreneurship and manufacturing continue to drive growth across East Central Indiana.

Solving Problems Through Innovation

Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of East Central Indiana’s economy. But today’s manufacturers need more than production capacity—they need innovative partners who can solve challenges, improve efficiency, and help them stay competitive.

Through Pivot Manufacturing and her family’s, Mursix Corporation, Carlock has built businesses centered on helping manufacturers improve processes, increase productivity, and find practical solutions to complex challenges.

Her success highlights the evolving nature of manufacturing, where innovation, technology, and collaboration are just as important as production.

Manufacturing Is Changing

Today’s manufacturing industry looks very different than it did a generation ago.

Advanced technology, automation, precision engineering, and continuous improvement have transformed the industry into one that values creativity, technical expertise, and problem-solving. Entrepreneurs like Carlock are helping lead that transformation by developing businesses that support manufacturers throughout the production process.

These companies strengthen supply chains while creating opportunities for growth throughout the region.

Women Leading the Future of Manufacturing

Carlock’s story also reflects the growing role of women in manufacturing and entrepreneurship.

Across East Central Indiana, women are leading companies, launching startups, managing operations, and helping shape the future of industries traditionally dominated by men. Their leadership brings new perspectives, drives innovation, and inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Celebrating these success stories encourages more individuals to consider careers in manufacturing, engineering, and business ownership.

Building Regional Competitiveness

Manufacturing remains one of East Central Indiana’s greatest economic strengths. Companies throughout the region rely on skilled workers, innovative suppliers, and collaborative partners to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global marketplace.

Entrepreneurs who create solutions for manufacturers help strengthen the entire regional economy by supporting existing employers, attracting investment, and encouraging continued innovation.

A Future Built on Ideas

At Forge ECI, we know that entrepreneurship and manufacturing go hand in hand. Every new idea, improved process, and successful business contributes to a stronger regional economy.

Susan Carlock’s recognition by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation celebrates more than individual achievement—it recognizes the entrepreneurial mindset that continues to drive East Central Indiana forward.

Congratulations to Susan on this well-deserved recognition. Her story reminds us that some of the region’s greatest innovations begin with entrepreneurs willing to ask, “How can we make this better?”

To read Susan Carlock’s full profile, explore page 84 of the Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.