INDIANAPOLIS – June 29, 2024 – EmployIndy proudly recognized 17 modern youth apprentices who are part of the first graduating cohort of the Modern Apprenticeship Program (MAP) as well as introduced a new fourth cohort of apprentices and employers participating in the program at the 2024 Modern Apprenticeship Signing Day event. 

MAP, a three-year program, connects Marion County high school students with local employers, providing a path toward discovering passions and developing skills to help them thrive in growing and in-demand industries including healthcare, information technology, education, business operations, financial services, and more. 

During their time in the program, each graduating apprentice from the first cohort earned their high school diploma, an hourly income from their employer, college credits, industry certifications and credentials, and first-hand, relevant job experience—multiplying their options after graduation. The new fourth cohort of 17 apprentices, selected from over 250 applicants, will begin the program in their junior year of high school, splitting their time between the classroom and the workplace. 

“The Modern Apprenticeship Program is unique in its ability to provide students with hands-on job experience and an opportunity to earn money, college credit, and professional connections,” says Marie Mackintosh, President + CEO of EmployIndy. “Our first graduating cohort is a diverse group of young people who have wonderfully modeled the path forward and we’re excited to see our newest cohort follow their example.” 

As a talent strategy and the highest-caliber experience offered through Talent Bound, EmployIndy’s career-connected learning continuum, MAP helps employers tap into diverse talent pools—building strong talent pipelines to meet both short- and long-term staffing needs. The program creates a structure for employers and educators to be part of workforce solutions while removing barriers, so all Marion County students have equitable access to career-ready training and jobs in high-demand fields. 

“As educators, we work hard to provide life-changing education and opportunities,” said Dr. Rebecca Daugherty-Saunders, Director of College and Career Readiness for the MSD of Wayne Township. “Through MAP, we’ve seen students draw real connections between their high school coursework, postsecondary credentials, and work experience, helping them to shape their career path and future.” 

The event also provided several graduating apprentices with an opportunity to share their experiences and encourage the incoming cohort. Having gained valuable insights and industry experience during their time in the program, these apprentices can confidently move forward in navigating the next step in their career path. 

“I think MAP did a lot to build my confidence, independence, and problem-solving abilities,” said Nicholas Graves, a third year graduating apprentice serving as a Staff Accountant at the Indy Chamber. “It has solidified my professional goals and provided a strong foundation that directly applies to my career in accounting.” 

The Modern Apprenticeship Signing Day event, taking place annually, marks the beginning of the apprentice-employer journey as the students sign a formal certificate of acceptance for their positions. As part of this commitment, the employer will mentor and support the student as they navigate an in-demand role within their respective organization. During the 3-year experience, EmployIndy, Marion County’s workforce development board, actively supports apprentices, employers, and general programmatic outcomes for Modern Apprenticeship. 

To learn more about Modern Apprenticeship (MAP), visit www.indymodernapprenticeship.com.