At 40 years old, Marlena Jackson proves it’s never too late to rewrite your story.
A proud Lilly Scholar at Ivy Tech in Ivy Tech Indianapolis’ cutting-edge Industrial Technology program, Jackson is balancing 12-hour shifts, academic excellence, and a decade of sobriety—as she transforms her passion for problem-solving into a thriving career.
A Decade of Transformation and New Beginnings
Celebrating 10 years of sobriety, Jackson’s life reflects a profound transformation.
“It’s crazy to see how my life has changed,” she says. “I turned 40 last month, and though I might be a late bloomer, I’m finally getting things under control.”
Her path to Ivy Tech began with an apprenticeship through a former employer, where she discovered a passion for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
“I started doing small maintenance tasks as a team leader,” she explains. “I got really interested in PLCs because of how essential they are to automation and robotics in manufacturing. It’s a puzzle, and I love puzzles.”
Jackson decided to deepen her knowledge of PLCs by continuing her education at Ivy Tech in pursuit of an Industrial Technology degree. The program, known for its hands-on training in automation, processes, PLCs, welding, and fluid power systems, provides real-world experiences that Jackson finds invaluable.
“The problem-solving is my favorite part,” she says. “Learning to communicate with machines and understanding how they work is exciting.”
Becoming a Lilly Scholar
When Jackson faced financial challenges, her prayers were answered in the form of an email about the Lilly Scholars Program, which offers scholarships to students pursuing advanced manufacturing and technology-related fields.
“I’ve never been so excited in my life as when I got the phone call that I was selected. It just opened up a door for me,” Jackson recalls with a smile. “This scholarship changed everything. It’s an honor to have that kind of support, and it motivates me to aim for straight A’s and graduate with honors.”
The Lilly Scholars Program has enabled Jackson to take eight-week courses, which she loves as a working adult.
“They fit perfectly into my life,” she says. “As someone who works 12-hour overnight shifts, having focused, shorter classes is a game-changer.”
Breaking Barriers in Manufacturing
As a woman in a predominantly male industry, Jackson is breaking stereotypes while pursuing her passion.
“It’s rare to see women in this field,” she notes. “At my former place of employment, I would’ve been the first woman in the maintenance department if I’d stayed. And I find that exciting—I like pushing boundaries.”
The Manufacturing Innovation Training Center
Jackson’s favorite courses involve working with PLCs, which control automation systems in factories.
“At work, I see the same Allen-Bradley controllers we use in class,” she says. “The hands-on experience helps me immediately apply what I’m learning.”
Jackson is among the first students to benefit from Ivy Tech’s new Manufacturing Innovation Training Center at the Emerging Manufacturing Collaboration Center (EMC²) in the 16 Tech Innovation District. This state-of-the-art facility, celebrating its ribbon-cutting celebration next month, offers advanced biopharmaceutical and manufacturing training in partnership with Eli Lilly and Company.
The new training center is fully automated with state-of-the-art integrated training systems from Amatrol, a Jeffersonville-based company and the world’s leader in skills-based, interactive technical learning. Its comprehensive training solutions align with industry needs to teach hands-on skills in the latest Industry 4.0 automated systems.
“The center is incredible,” Jackson says enthusiastically. “It’s high-tech and filled with everything we need to learn. It’s amazing to work in a place that mirrors what we see in the field.”
Encouraging Others to Take the Leap
As Jackson continues her journey, she’s quick to encourage others to explore Ivy Tech’s Industrial Technology program and the opportunities available through the Lilly Scholars Program.
“It’s easier than people think to get help with school at Ivy Tech,” she says. “If you’re willing to share your story and put yourself out there, you can achieve so much.”
While being in class with younger students might seem daunting to some adult learners, Jackson finds it energizing.
“I love mentoring people and helping them when they’re struggling,” Marlena said.
Whether offering tips for acing math classes or encouraging classmates to stay on track with their homework, Jackson embraces her role as a guide and motivator.
Her ultimate goal is to graduate with honors and step into a role where she can fully utilize her skills in smart manufacturing.
“I want to be the person people turn to when things go wrong—the ‘robot mom,’” she says with a smile.
Learn More and Get Involved
If Jackson’s story inspires you, consider exploring Ivy Tech’s Industrial Technology program and/or applying for the Lilly Scholars Program. You can also schedule a tour of the Manufacturing Innovation Training Center to see firsthand how Ivy Tech is shaping the future of advanced manufacturing and technology.
For more information, visit Ivy Tech Indianapolis or contact the admissions office.
NEXT: Meet Biotechnology Graduate and Lilly Scholar Theron Walsh
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
