USTF Welcomes Will Murrie for Fall 2026 Internship

August 17, 2026

Will Murrie

Odon, Ind. — The Uplands Science & Technology Foundation (USTF) welcomed Will Murrie today as an intern for the fall semester. A senior at North Daviess High School, Will joins the USTF team for an introduction to the world of economic development and regional innovation.

Will's internship gives him a firsthand look at how USTF works to grow the defense technology and innovation economy in south-central Indiana — from supporting businesses locating at and near the WestGate@Crane Technology Park, to building the workforce and community partnerships that make this region a destination for investment and opportunity.

"I am looking forward to starting my new role at USTF and gaining experience in a professional environment," said Will. "I am excited to learn more about how businesses grow and how economic development helps to bring new opportunities to a community."

Will plans to pursue a college education in STEM-focused business after high school, with the goal of building a career that puts both his education and this professional experience to work. 

"We love the opportunity to introduce the next generation of business and community leaders to what economic development looks like in practice," said Bryant Niehoff, CEO of USTF. "Will brings enthusiasm and a genuine curiosity about how communities grow — and that is exactly the kind of energy we want around this work. We are glad to have him with us for the rest of the calendar year and look forward to seeing where he goes from here."

USTF is committed to building the talent pipeline in south-central Indiana, and welcoming young people like Will into the work of economic development is a part of that commitment.

About the Uplands Science & Technology Foundation

The Uplands Science & Technology Foundation (USTF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the vitality of the WestGate@Crane Technology Park. Created in 2021, following the completion of the technology park’s Master Plan, USTF supports the park’s long-term strategy and growth, building on the successes achieved by the WestGate Authority and other partners. For more information, please visit ustfwestgate.org.

About the WestGate@Crane Technology Park

Just beyond the gates of the world’s third largest naval base, the WestGate@Crane Technology Park connects a world-class innovation ecosystem that includes the rich knowledge and capabilities of NWS Crane, the park’s 70+ tenants, and Indiana’s top research, development, and educational institutions. Set on 750 acres of the rolling hills and forests of southern Indiana, the cutting-edge technology park offers competitive advantages and exclusive amenities leveraged through the one-stop assistance of the park’s management partner, Uplands Science & Technology Foundation (USTF).