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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIndiana scored a $6.25 million boost from the federal government to expand registered apprenticeships across the state–growing a path to higher-paying, in-demand careers for Hoosiers.
The Indiana Department of Workforce Development Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship team secured the federal grant as part of a nearly $84 million national push by the U.S. Department of Labor to expand apprenticeship capacity.
“These federal dollars ensure Indiana is in a prime position to deliver on President Trump’s Executive Order to modernize American workforce programs,” Gov. Mike Braun said in a press release. “We’re not just equipping employers with vital tools for skills development; we’re cementing Indiana’s leadership in workforce innovation and economic prosperity.”
The award includes:
- $1.28 million in base funding to bolster existing apprenticeship infrastructure.
- $4,9 million in competitive expansion grants aimed at launching new apprenticeship models and reducing barriers for employers.
The RAP combines on-the-job learning, classroom instruction and mentorship to train individuals in their field. The program is offered in in several industries including agriculture, building and construction and health and life sciences. DWD Commissioner Josh Richardson said RAP is a pathway to good-paying careers.
“The resources allotted allows us to deepen partnerships with Indiana businesses, community colleges, and training providers–strengthening our talent pipeline and ensuring Hoosiers have the skills employers need today and into the future,” he said in a press release.
For fiscal year 2025, there were a total of 25,250 active apprentices across the state–putting Indiana near the lead.
Indiana’s demand for apprenticeship is rising after education officials approved a massive high school diploma redesign last year. The new graduation plan includes more personalized learning pathways and experiences, including taking college courses while in high school and gaining hands-on experience.
On top of the massive diploma redesign, CEMETS iLab Indiana launched a new statewide education pathway to create additional youth work-based learning opportunities and apprenticeships.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle is an independent, nonprofit news organization that covers state government, policy and elections.
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There is no substitute for a college degree, where graduates earn an average of $1.2 million more during their working years than trade school graduates (who earn an average of less that $60,000 a year depending on the trade that specialize in). Also, college graduates have more career opportunities that trade school graduates.