Indiana is set to receive a total of $18.79 million in federal grants aimed at strengthening the state’s workforce pipeline. Governor Mike Braun unveiled the awards on Thursday, highlighting four distinct initiatives that will train workers for high‑growth sectors, support special‑education teachers, expand apprenticeship opportunities, and help adults with justice‑system backgrounds re‑enter skilled trades.
Industry‑Driven Skills Training Fund – $6.7 million
The largest portion of the funding, a $6.7 million grant from the Department of Labor, will be administered through the new Industry‑Driven Skills Training Fund. Over the next four years, the grant will finance training programs in advanced manufacturing, information technology, construction and allied health care. Employers and local workforce development boards will collaborate to identify regional skill gaps and design curricula that match employer needs.
Special‑Education Teacher Apprenticeship – $3.09 million
The U.S. Department of Education contributed $3.09 million to create a statewide registered apprenticeship model for special‑education teachers. This five‑year program will provide paid, lower‑cost pathways toward full licensure, targeting districts that face acute teacher shortages. Participants will earn a stipend while completing coursework and on‑the‑job training, helping schools fill critical positions more quickly.
Apprenticeship Expansion Grant – $3.9 million
A $3.9 million grant from the Department of Labor will support the expansion of apprenticeship programs over three years. The funding will be used to develop group apprenticeship sponsorships, train career‑technical education counselors, and strengthen local workforce boards’ capacity to support advanced manufacturing apprenticeships.
RESTART Initiative – $5.1 million
The fourth award, known as RESTART (Reentry Employment in Skilled Trades, Advanced Manufacturing, Registered Apprenticeships and Training Initiative), provides $5.1 million over three and a half years. RESTART will connect adults age 25 and older who have been involved in the justice system with training and employment in advanced manufacturing, construction, skilled trades, transportation and logistics.
Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich said the investments will enable Hoosiers to acquire skills for in‑demand careers while giving businesses a reliable pipeline of qualified workers. “These grants are a clear signal that the federal government is committed to helping Indiana’s economy thrive,” Goodrich added.
Workforce Development Commissioner Kate Shelby echoed the sentiment, noting that the grants will expand employer‑driven training and help businesses meet their staffing needs. “When employers have a say in curriculum design, training becomes more relevant and effective,” she said.
National data from the Department of Labor shows that 93 % of apprentices remain employed after completing their programs, and employers see an average return of $1.47 for every dollar invested in registered apprenticeships. The Indiana awards align with these positive outcomes, promising both job creation and economic stability for the state.
The grants will fund programs through 2031, providing a long‑term boost to Indiana’s labor market. More information about the state’s workforce initiatives can be found at in.gov/dwd.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
