Understanding INCAP
Learn how the pathway works, what makes it different, and how to determine whether it’s the right fit for a student.
What is INCAP?
Employer-Led Education and Training
The Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (INCAP) aligns classroom learning with paid, on-the-job education and training — ensuring the next generation of Indiana students is inspired, engaged, and prepared to succeed.
INCAP includes two types of education and training programs:
- INCAP Apprenticeship Program (AP) — Offers multi-year apprenticeships that begin in high school and combine classroom learning with paid on-the-job training. After completing their INCAP program, students will have met the key requirements of the Employment Honors Plus Seal: Completing at least 650 hours of work-based learning and earning an INCAP credential. At the end of their apprenticeship, they earn an INCAP credential or degree, depending on their chosen apprenticeship. Learn more about the INCAP Apprenticeship Program for High Schoolers (on the main INCAP website).
- INCAP Career Program (CP) — Continues the pathway by offering industry-led education and training programs for adults who want to develop additional skills and advance their careers. High school students who complete an INCAP Apprenticeship Program may choose to continue with an INCAP Career Program, depending on their career goals and occupation availability. Adult trainees earn an INCAP degree — equivalent to an academic degree. Learn more about the INCAP Career Program for Adults (on the main INCAP website).
INCAP 101
Learn how the Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway works and what students can expect through this short introductory video.
Running time: 2 min, 12 sec.
Why the Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway Exists
Inspired by Switzerland. Designed for Indiana.
In Indiana, just 52% of the high school graduating class of 2024 enrolled in college within one year, and based on college-going and completion date, fewer than 40% of students ultimately earn a college degree. Yet, by 2031, 72% of U.S. jobs will require education and training beyond high school. Hoosiers need more options to prepare for what’s next, and that’s where INCAP comes in.
The Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway is modeled after the renowned Swiss Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) system. In Switzerland, roughly two-thirds of high school-age students participate in vocational education and training, which involves classroom learning in schools, hands-on learning in intercompany training centers, and on-the-job training at employer sites.
Drawing on lessons from Switzerland, CEMETS iLab Indiana, a coalition of more than 300 Hoosier leaders committed to addressing Indiana’s education and workforce challenges, set out to design a unique system that meets the needs of Indiana students and employers.
What Makes INCAP Different?
The Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway differs from traditional work-based learning opportunities in several important ways:
Employers Define the Skills
Employers define the competencies and skills students need to learn, so INCAP occupations are designed around real workforce needs.
Paid On-the-Job Training
Participants are paid and spend multiple full days each week learning on-site with an employer.
Classroom Learning Supports Workplace Learning
Classroom content is aligned with the occupation to support workplace learning and activities.
Degrees & Credentials That Count
INCAP degrees and credentials hold value in the labor market and can count toward college credit, so participants have a choice for what’s next.
Regional Support Along the Way
INCAP Connectors help schools navigate implementation, coordinate locally, and support students along the way.
Start with These Resources
Downloads for You and Your Students
Download these introductory resources to learn more about the Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway and share information with students, families, and colleagues.
How to Know If INCAP Is the Right Fit
Helping Students Choose the Right Path
Every student has different interests, strengths, and goals. INCAP is designed for students who want to combine classroom learning with paid, hands-on experience while preparing for an in-demand career. As you meet with students and families, consider whether an INCAP apprenticeship aligns with the student’s interests, learning style, and goals.
As you talk with students and families, consider questions such as:
- Is the student excited about learning through hands-on experience?
- Are they interested in beginning a career while still in high school?
- Would they benefit from spending multiple days each week in a workplace?
- Are they motivated by earning a paycheck while building career skills?
- Do they understand how an apprenticeship fits into their high school schedule and future plans?
- Will the scheduling requirements allow them to stay on track to graduate?
Students who answer “yes” to several of these questions may be good candidates for an INCAP apprenticeship.
Industries & Occupations
Employer-Led Career Opportunities
Industry Talent Associations work directly with employers to develop apprenticeship occupations that reflect real workforce needs. As employer demand changes, new occupations will be introduced to prepare students for in-demand careers across Indiana.
Over the next two years, the Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway is expected to include apprenticeship opportunities across industries such as:
- Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics (AML)
- Banking/Financial Services
- Construction
- Culinary
- Healthcare
- Hospitality
- Insurance
- Life Sciences
- Microelectronics
- Tech/IT
As INCAP grows, additional industries with new apprenticeship opportunities will be included.
In the meantime, explore the current apprenticeship occupations to see which will be offered for the 2027-2028 school year.
