Work first, college degree later: Indiana wants students to consider a new postsecondary model
Driving a school bus allowed Carly Kendall to see her daughter off to school every day, while balancing her service in the National Guard. But once her daughter was older, Kendall wanted to start a career. She found one via an…
Indiana has unveiled a new postsecondary education model that prioritizes work experience before college degrees, aiming to prepare students for high-paying jobs without accumulating debt. Carly Kendall, a former school bus driver who now oversees apprenticeship programs at First Merchants Bank, exemplifies the potential of this approach.
Banks can serve as ideal training grounds due to their diverse roles and opportunities for advancement. The state's vision is to integrate apprenticeships and internships into high school education, allowing students to gain valuable skills and potentially earn credentials while working. Upon graduating high school, students can either continue their education or enter the workforce.
To ensure these programs' success, Indiana is developing a framework that will help students transition smoothly from apprenticeships to college degrees if desired. While the model has drawn bipartisan support, challenges remain in attracting students and employers, particularly in industries that traditionally require college degrees.
The state hopes that by aligning education and workforce development, Indiana can lead the way in offering students a practical, skill-focused pathway to success.
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