More Hoosier students are choosing apprenticeships as an alternative to a four-year college degree.

Indiana now has more than 22,000 active apprentices, ranking fourth in the nation. Since taking office in 2025, Governor Braun has approved $6.25 million in federal funding to expand apprenticeship programs.

Braun said students should learn about apprenticeships earlier in high school, arguing that many have been encouraged to pursue college degrees they never complete.

Many Indiana schools now partner with local employers to connect students with apprenticeship opportunities before graduation, helping them move directly into high-paying careers in the skilled trades and other industries.