Transforming Morton Square into a Hub for Student Empowerment, Employer Partnership, and Community Growth
Martinsville, IN — A transformative project aimed at equipping the next generation of Indiana’s workforce has been announced in Martinsville. Local entrepreneur Justin Clements, who recently sold his majority stake of tech company Remodel Health at a valuation nearing $150 million, is investing in a public-private partnership with the MSD of Martinsville, the Community Foundation of Morgan County, and a broad coalition of community leaders to launch the Innovation & Career Lab—a hands-on, career-focused learning facility for high school students across Morgan County and surrounding areas.
The Innovation & Career Lab will be housed in the redeveloped former Marsh grocery building and adjoining Morton Square shops. The state-of-the-art facility will offer experiential training in:
- Construction and skilled trades
- Financial services
- Computer programming
- Marketing & sales skills
- Health & beauty professions
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Public service careers (police, fire, EMT)
- Leadership development
“This is about giving our young people options—real, tangible, meaningful opportunities to discover their purpose and start building toward it, We’re not just renovating a building. We’re rebuilding hope, confidence, and momentum for the future generations.” Justin Clements
Inspired by Coach John Wooden’s Legacy
Rooted in the values of Morgan County’s most famous son, Coach John R. Wooden, the Innovation & Career Lab seeks to pair technical training with deep character development.
“We are committed to giving all youth great opportunities, while also leveraging the timeless leadership and coaching principles taught by Coach Wooden,” Clements added. “This is about character as much as it is about careers.”
Backed by Community and Business Leaders
The project is gaining momentum from a growing list of strategic partners, including the Better Communities Coalition, City of Martinsville officials, elected state officials, and private sector leaders who see the potential to build a scalable model for community revitalization and workforce development.
“This partnership is about enriching the lives of students—not only in Martinsville, but across the region,” said Eric Bowlen, Superintendent of the MSD of Martinsville. “We are preparing students to uncover their passions, while giving them a launchpad into careers that are both fulfilling and financially sustainable.”
“This initiative shows what’s possible when we connect education, community, and business,” said Dan Moore, Chairman of Home Bank. “It represents the kind of long-term investment in people and advancement that has the power to reshape entire regions.”
Creating Pathways Without Debt
The Innovation & Career Lab also elevates success stories of young entrepreneurs who’ve taken alternative paths to prosperity.
“I graduated from Martinsville High School just a few years ago,” said Cody Aliff, a local business owner and early supporter of the project. “Instead of going into student debt, I jumped straight into a career and started building my own business. This lab will give students the confidence and skills to know that’s possible—and achievable right here in central Indiana”.
Designed for Sustainability and Replication
The Innovation & Career Lab is not only a local development—it’s being positioned as a replicable model for other rural and suburban communities across the Midwest. Employers from across Central Indiana are actively engaged in shaping training programs, offering internships and apprenticeships, and facilitating career placement.
The project is seeking philanthropic, corporate, and grant funding to scale impact, enhance technical programming, and create a replicable playbook for other communities.