MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATORS

Every student deserves guidance, support, and options.

The Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (INCAP) aligns classroom learning with paid, on-the-job education and training, ensuring that the next generation of Indiana students is inspired, engaged, and prepared to succeed.

Preparing students for what comes after high school.

You know it well: Some students thrive when given the chance to learn through real-world experience. That’s why the Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway offers a complement to the traditional high school-to-college path, providing another option for students.

High school students who participate in apprenticeship programs are often surprised by how well they function in a professional setting, unlocking confidence as well as capability. Students receive high-level education and industry-led training, earning a high school diploma with an Employment Honors Plus seal. At the end of their apprenticeship, they receive an INCAP credential. This gives them a shorter route to a traditional college degree, should they choose to transition to that path.

INCAP is all about helping students find out where their interests lie and prepare for a career in their field of choice.

HOW INCAP WORKS

Students Explore Careers

During middle school and the first year of high school, students are encouraged to speak to a representative at their school to learn about available occupations and explore their interests.

Students Prepare for INCAP

Students choose an INCAP occupation and work with their school counselor to build a high school plan that aligns with their required schedule. Depending on the occupation, students may be able to participate in sports and other extracurricular activities.

Students Begin Their Apprenticeship Program

Students begin their multi-year apprenticeship in the 10th or 11th grade. They spend at least three full days a week doing paid on-the-job training, with the remainder of their time spent at school. They earn an Employment Honors Plus diploma seal, plus an INCAP credential.

Apprenticeship Examples

Schools play two important roles in INCAP.

Regionally located intermediaries, called INCAP Connectors, will share information about available apprenticeships, which schools will use to match students with opportunities of interest. The INCAP Connectors will assist schools with this matching process and also support schools and students during the duration of the apprenticeship programs.

Educators also collaborate with Industry Talent Associations (ITAs) – organizations responsible for leading employer engagement – to identify the required knowledge students need to learn in the classroom, which will continue to be taught by educators at school.

 

INCAP apprenticeships have arrived

INCAP apprenticeships are a great option for students who are interested in learning outside the classroom. The program details below provide a starting point to help you and your students better understand the available opportunities.

INCAP APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS FOR HIGH SCHOOLERS

HOW TO GET STARTED

Are you, or your school, interested in learning more? Your INCAP Connector can help.

INCAP Connectors are organizations working to connect Indiana students to promising futures, serving as a bridge between schools, their students, and INCAP apprenticeship opportunities in their communities.

Contact your regional INCAP Connector for more information on INCAP apprenticeships.

Frequently Asked Questions


Does participation in INCAP meet state high school graduation requirements?

Yes, students who participate in an INCAP apprenticeship program will earn a high school diploma with an Employment Honors Plus Seal (assuming they meet all other requirements). Upon completion of the apprenticeship, they will receive an INCAP credential. 

Will students have time to participate in extracurricular activities and sports?

Yes, this will be an option for some occupations. Part of the role of an Industry Talent Association is to develop schedules that allow for this possibility for students who wish to participate in extracurricular activities. In these instances, students will work with their school counselor to build a high school schedule around when they need to be at an employer site and what classes they need to take at school, while still allowing for participation in sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities.

What industries are currently seeking INCAP apprentices?

Employers in nine industries are currently participating in INCAP, with some welcoming high school apprentices in the fall of 2026. Others will launch Apprenticeship Programs for the 2027-2028 school year.

  • Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics
  • Banking/Financial Services
  • Construction
  • Culinary
  • Healthcare
  • Hospitality
  • Insurance
  • Life Sciences
  • Tech/IT

We expect more industries to establish their own ITAs and begin offering apprenticeship programs in the coming years. 

How will students travel from school to their apprenticeship programs?

Each apprenticeship program occupation follows a standardized schedule that outlines when students are in the classroom and when they’re on-site with their employer. This consistent structure, combined with the requirement that students spend multiple full days on the job, makes it easier for students and families to plan reliable transportation to various workplace locations in partnership with schools and employers.

What options do students have after completing an apprenticeship program?

Students who complete the INCAP Apprenticeship Program will earn a high school diploma with the Employment Honors Plus Seal, as well as an INCAP credential. These credentials hold value in the labor market and count toward college credit, so the student has options for what’s next. They can enter the workforce and launch a career, knowing they have the option to continue industry-led education and training within INCAP. Alternatively, they can attend college. Depending on the selected apprenticeship program, students may be able to complete a two- or four-year college degree in fewer years.