State Treasurer Daniel Elliott applauds successful initiative supporting workforce development

The Indiana State Treasurer's Office announced today that all scholarship funds for the Indiana Career Scholarship Accounts (CSA) allocated for the 2024-2025 academic year have been distributed. This CSA milestone marks a significant achievement in the State's ongoing efforts to prepare Hoosiers for in-demand, well-paying careers across critical industries such as healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and logistics.

CSAs are state-funded scholarships tailored to help students pursue their interests by removing barriers to participation in the career preparation programs of their choice. Eligible programs include internships, apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, and credential attainment experiences. This academic year, 1,900 students were each awarded a $5,000 scholarship. Upon graduation from their respective programs, these high school students will have the ability to seamlessly enter the workforce.

"This program has proven its value time and again, giving Hoosiers the chance to develop the skills they need to succeed," said Treasurer Daniel Elliott. "It makes me proud to see such strong interest and engagement from so many people who are committed to taking charge of their careers and investing in their future right here in Indiana."

Through Indiana's CSA program, Indiana residents who are in their sophomore, junior, or senior year of high school are eligible to receive funding that allows them to access critical training, certifications, and work-based learning opportunities. All providers and educational opportunities must obtain approval from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and the Indiana Department of Education for students to access funding. The program focuses on aligning workforce development with the State's economic needs to ensure participants receive training in fields vital to Indiana's continued economic growth.

The Growing Impact

Since its beginning, the CSA program has empowered hundreds of Hoosiers to pursue education and certifications without the burden of financial barriers. As a result, Indiana is seeing a growing segment of skilled workers ready to contribute to industries that are foundational to the State's economic future. The program's growing impact is a testament to its successes and promises a better outlook for the State's workforce, instilling a sense of pride in all those involved.

"We've been overwhelmed by the positive response from both participants and employers," stated Tina Kaetzel, Executive Director for the CSA Program. "It shows that when we invest in our youth, we are also investing in Indiana's future."

Indiana Career Scholarship Accounts, established as part of a broader high school redesign initiative, were created to close the education and skills gap to help ensure that Hoosiers are prepared for life after graduation. More recently, the General Assembly passed a revised version of the bill in the 2024 legislative session. House Enrolled Act 1001, authored by Representative Chuck Goodrich, allows students to combine funds from the 21st Century Scholars Program and other grants to supplement CSA money.

Applicants who missed out on the opportunity to participate in the program this academic year are encouraged to prepare their application for next year. The program looks forward to welcoming new participants and witnessing their journey toward a successful career.

For more information about the Indiana Career Scholarship Accounts, visit www.in.gov/tos/csa  or contact the Indiana Treasurer's Office at 317-232-0723 or email CSA@tos.in.gov.