Indy Standard

Local lawmakers in Hamilton County are urging high school students interested in work-based learning and credentials to apply for a Career Scholarship Account.

"Indiana remains laser-focused on expanding work-based learning opportunities to help Hoosiers skill up for the jobs of today and the future," House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) said. "With the help of Career Scholarship Accounts, our hope is that employers will step up to make connections with students early on about training and job opportunities, which will set more young Hoosiers up for success after graduation."

State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville), author of the law creating the scholarships, stated that students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades at state-accredited public or private schools can receive up to a $5,000 state-funded scholarship. These funds can be used for apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, work-based learning, and credential attainment. Approximately 2,000 spots are available for the 2024-2025 school year, with an application deadline of October 1.

"Hands-on opportunities teach young Hoosiers essential skills that prepare them for the next stages of their life," Goodrich said. "This scholarship can help our students discover a pathway to success, whether that's entering the workforce upon graduation, pursuing additional training or attending college."

State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) mentioned that accounts are available to high school students enrolled in courses or educational experiences approved by the Indiana Department of Education. Eligible students will participate in joint career and technical education programs, modern youth apprenticeships, registered apprenticeships or an Indiana College Core program by an approved CSA participating entity.

"Career Scholarship Accounts are really a gamechanger for students," Jeter said. "They'll have more access to outside learning opportunities can help them identify their interests and start building skills so they can hit the ground running after graduating from high school."

Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements to cover certain qualified expenses including class costs for apprenticeship/internship programs, postsecondary education/training fees, equipment costs for apprenticeship/internship programs, certification and credentialing examinations fees, career coaching services fees as well as transportation costs including driver's license expenses.

According to State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel), courses cover various topics such as accounting, carpentry, cybersecurity, information technology, software development and veterinary science. A comprehensive list of approved courses and participating entities is available at in.gov/tos/csa.

"Whether students are planning to enroll in college or enter the workforce," Schaibley said. "The training made possible through Career Scholarship Accounts can help set them up for a bright future. I encourage all eligible students to apply today."

State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel) added: "By removing financial barriers to hands-on work-based learning experiences and training opportunities like internships and apprenticeships," he said. “These scholarships will open up opportunities especially for those who often face financial hurdles when pursuing experiences outside the classroom.”

For more information on Career Scholarship Accounts or to enroll before October 1st visit in.gov/tos/csa email CSA@tos.in.gov or call 317-232-0723.

Local employers trade associations labor unions and others interested in connecting with new talent can apply to host a CSA program or become providers by visiting in.gov/tos/csa under "provider resources".