Governor Braun celebrates Indiana leading the nation in registered apprenticeships during National Apprenticeship Week

Governor Mike Braun today celebrated Indiana as a national leader in Registered Apprenticeships during National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting the state’s role in preparing Hoosiers for in-demand careers.

Indiana ranks first in the nation for active Registered Apprentices per capita and fourth overall, with more than 25,000 active Registered Apprentices across 900+ programs. The state also ranks among the national leaders in veteran participation, early childhood education and construction apprenticeships, reflecting strong engagement in critical industries.

“Preparing Hoosiers for the workforce is a cornerstone of my administration and fundamental to building a prosperous future for Indiana,” said Gov. Braun. “Indiana continues to lead because we are connecting Hoosiers directly to high-demand careers through a proven model that delivers results for both workers and employers.”

This year marks the first-ever spring observance of National Apprenticeship Week, led by the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL). The 2026 theme, “America at Work: Making America Skilled Again through Registered Apprenticeship,” reflects a national effort to strengthen the workforce pipeline, meet industry needs, and advance the goal of reaching one million apprentices. USDOL data shows more than 90 percent of participants remain employed after completing their programs, reinforcing Registered Apprenticeship as a reliable pathway to career success.  

“National Apprenticeship Week reinforces the importance of building a workforce ready to meet today’s economic demands,” said Mike Smith, interim commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD). “Registered Apprenticeship delivers results because it is built around employer demand. Indiana’s growth reflects strong partnerships and a clear focus on connecting people to long-term career opportunities.” 

DWD’s Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship team continues to support program growth through a USDOL grant of more than $6.25 million awarded in 2025 to expand Registered Apprenticeship opportunities across the state. The funding supports new program development, strengthens employer partnerships, and helps scale participation in key sectors.  

As Indiana continues to scale employer-driven training pathways, Registered Apprenticeship remains a cornerstone strategy for building talent, supporting businesses, and expanding opportunity for Hoosiers.

Visit https://www.in.gov/dwd/owbla/registered-apprenticeship-basics/ to learn more.