Gov. Braun announces national recognition for Indiana's Adult Education Leadership

 Indiana Governor Mike Braun today announced the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) earned top recognition from the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) for advancing career pathways through Indiana’s Adult Education system. NASWA presented the Pinnacle Award for Workforce Development during its 2026 Winter Policy Forum in National Harbor, Maryland. 

The Pinnacle Award represents one of the highest honors by NASWA and recognizes states that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and results in workforce development. This year’s recognition underscores Indiana’s strategic effort to connect adult learners to high-demand careers by strengthening the bridge between foundational education and industry-aligned training opportunities.

“This recognition reflects the strength of Indiana’s collaborative workforce system,” said Gov. Braun. “When we align adult education with workforce demand, we create opportunity for Hoosiers and ensure our employers have access to the skilled talent they need to grow.”

Since 2023, Indiana’s application of the Adult Education Integrated Education and Training (IET) model has expanded access to Pre-Apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship Programs statewide – solidifying structured and scalable workforce pathways. 

The initiative has driven measurable expansion statewide. Indiana has established 66 pre-apprenticeship programs in partnership with 44 organizations, including rapid growth within Adult Education programs. Communities in both rural and urban regions now offer structured entry points into apprenticeship-aligned careers, with full statewide availability expected by 2026.