Indianapolis, Indiana – High school students in Indianapolis who are interested in hands-on work, technology, and real-world problem solving now have a new opportunity to launch careers in advanced manufacturing without sacrificing education or income. The Indiana Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (INFAME) Central Indiana, in partnership with Ivy Tech Indianapolis, is introducing a two-year apprenticeship program that combines classroom learning with paid, on-the-job experience while helping students earn a college degree.
The program, modeled after a successful initiative at Ivy Tech Fort Wayne, gives students the chance to build technical skills, industry knowledge, and professional confidence while working with modern manufacturing equipment, automation systems, and cutting-edge technology. By blending academic coursework with practical experience, the program ensures that students graduate ready to succeed in a field that demands both technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
Learn by doing from day one
Students enrolled in the INFAME Central Indiana program will split their time between school and work. Two days a week, they will attend classes at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, learning foundational skills in industrial technology, mathematics, and workplace safety. The remaining three days are spent on the shop floor with one of nine sponsoring advanced manufacturing companies, such as RedGold, Roche, and 3M.
Rather than observing from the sidelines, students are actively engaged from the first day, troubleshooting systems, resolving real production challenges, and learning how advanced manufacturing operates in a modern environment. With a cohort of roughly 15 students, the program fosters collaboration, mentorship, and a sense of shared purpose that mirrors the teamwork required in professional manufacturing settings.
“The goal is simple: graduate prepared, experienced, and employed,” said a program representative.
Earn while you learn and graduate debt-free
A standout feature of the program is that students are employed by a sponsoring company and earn a competitive wage of $21 or more per hour during their apprenticeship. By the time they graduate, students can step into long-term careers with their sponsoring employers, often with even higher earning potential.
Over five semesters, students in the program will:
• Earn an Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Technology
• Achieve the Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) certificate
• Graduate with zero debt
• Enter the workforce with hands-on experience and a clear career path
This “earn while you learn” model allows students to pursue higher education without financial strain, offering a tangible pathway to both college and career.
Designed for today’s high school students
The program is particularly well-suited for students in dual-credit programs, those enrolled in manufacturing or STEM career pathways, homeschooled and nontraditional students, and anyone who enjoys hands-on work, problem-solving, and active learning. Advanced manufacturing careers offer variety, collaboration, and meaningful work—qualities that appeal to students seeking more than a conventional classroom experience.
“Students get the chance to apply what they learn in class immediately on the job,” said a program official. “They see the results of their work, learn from industry experts, and develop skills that set them apart in a competitive field.”
Open houses provide insight and guidance
Students and families interested in learning more about the program can attend one of two open houses at the Glick Family Technology Center on February 25 or April 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. These sessions will give attendees a clear understanding of how the program works, the types of careers available in advanced manufacturing, and the steps required to apply and enroll. Representatives from Ivy Tech and partnering companies will be on hand to answer questions and provide guidance.
“At the open house, students can explore opportunities firsthand and meet the people who will guide them through both the classroom and workplace components of the program,” a program spokesperson said.
For questions or to express interest in applying, prospective students can contact Jon Adams at [email protected] or Chad Smith at [email protected].
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, serves students at campuses across the state and online. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Ivy Tech functions as a workforce development engine, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificates, industry certifications, and training aligned with regional workforce needs.
The college provides a seamless pathway for students to transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana or beyond, offering an affordable route to a bachelor’s degree. With its strong focus on practical education and career preparation, Ivy Tech is a natural partner for the INFAME Central Indiana apprenticeship program.
A pathway to a brighter future
For students interested in advanced manufacturing, this program offers more than just technical training. It provides a chance to gain professional experience, earn a living wage, and graduate debt-free while learning from leaders in the field. The program ensures that students are not only prepared to enter the workforce but also equipped to excel in careers that combine innovation, technology, and teamwork.
“This program is about building the next generation of advanced manufacturing professionals,” a program representative said. “Students who complete the program leave with a degree, a certification, work experience, and connections that will serve them for years to come.”
By connecting high school students directly with employers and providing structured, paid learning experiences, INFAME Central Indiana and Ivy Tech Indianapolis are creating a model that bridges education and industry. Students graduate not just with credentials, but with confidence, competence, and a clear path to a meaningful career.
As advanced manufacturing continues to grow and evolve, programs like this ensure that students are ready to meet the demands of a modern workforce while gaining the support and mentorship they need to thrive. For Indianapolis students with a passion for technology, problem-solving, and hands-on learning, the new INFAME Central Indiana apprenticeship program represents a unique and exciting opportunity to jumpstart a career in a high-demand field while earning and learning at the same time.
