Apprenticeship Rising shines spotlight on local youth apprentices

Two youth apprentices speak to members of the public in an informational fair setting.

Youth apprentices Angelique Vega-Nava of the Tolson Center (left) and Brenna Slaight of Triple P Elkhart County (right, facing camera) share about their experiences as apprentices at the 2024 Apprenticeship Rising event May 5 at Goshen Theater.

GOSHEN (May 5, 2024) – Youth apprentices from across Elkhart County came to the Goshen Theater in downtown Goshen to share their experiences working toward their educational and career goals at the third-annual CareerWise Elkhart County Apprenticeship Rising event.

Understanding Modern Youth Apprenticeship in Elkhart County

Originating from the Swiss system — a model that boasts almost 70% student participation — modern youth apprenticeship offers a unique blend of education and real-world experience. Through the CareerWise Elkhart County initiative hosted by HEA, local high school juniors and seniors immerse themselves in hands-on roles in their chosen fields. This experience counts not only towards their high school credits but also offers college credits, industry credentials, and even a paycheck.

Celebrating Success and Partnerships

Over 60 apprentices have enriched their careers with the CareerWise Elkhart County program since 2019. This year’s celebration focused on the apprentices, giving the community a chance to talk one-on-one with the more than 30 apprentices currently working toward completion of their programs. Family members, employer mentors, educators, community members, and CareerWise staff joined the celebration.

Highlighting the event were a pair of graduates who showcased mastery of their apprenticeship curriculums defined by the Department of Labor:

Sophia Burkhart, Elkhart High School graduate and paralegal apprentice at the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney for Elkhart County
Deacon Dillenbeck, Jimtown High School graduate and Hoosier Crane Service Company technician apprentice

A special thanks to Photography by Kelly and Justin who captured the heartwarming moments. View a slideshow from the event below.

Join The Movement: Engage with the Future Workforce

If your company is eager to be part of the CareerWise Modern Youth Apprenticeship in Elkhart County, don’t hesitate to connect. Reach out to CareerWise Director Sarah Koontz for a partnership that shapes the future: skoontz@heaindiana.org.