UpSkill Work & Learn Employers

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Build Your Talent Pipeline in the Indiana Uplands

Finding and keeping great talent takes time — but you don’t have to do it alone.

Through Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI), employers can connect with students earlier and help shape the skills their businesses need through the UpSkill Work & Learn apprenticeship program. By training students while they’re still in school, you reduce hiring costs, boost retention, and build a reliable pipeline of local, career-ready talent.

ROI also partners with Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (INCAP), a statewide initiative expanding youth apprenticeships across Indiana. This partnership gives employers access to additional resources, guidance, and funding opportunities — making it even easier to get involved.

When you invest in students today, you’re strengthening your workforce for tomorrow — and helping the Indiana Uplands grow, one opportunity at a time.UpSkill isn’t a typical internship—it’s a multi-year work-and-learn program that gives students paid, hands-on work experience alongside structured learning, preparing them for a real career in the Indiana Uplands.

How UpSkill Apprenticeships Work

Students participate in structured, entry‑level roles designed to build foundational skills while balancing school commitments. Juniors typically work 10–12 hours per week, while seniors increase to 15–20 hours per week. On‑the‑job experience is supported by structured coursework aligned with the apprenticeship, ensuring that students gain relevant skills, industry exposure, and a smooth transition from learning to earning.

How ROI Supports UpSkill Employers

ROI supports employers every step of the way — from recruitment and hiring assistance to ongoing engagement and regular check-ins that help ensure successful experiences for both employers and students:

• Recruitment activities. ROI provides structure and coordination with schools during the apprentice recruitment period, including hosting a student interest session at your location.
• Apprenticeship application. ROI facilitates an online tool where students can apply to participate in the Program.
• Work and training plans. ROI coordinates the development of the work plans for apprentices that meet the Indiana Department of Education Work Based Learning and the Department of Labor student learner exemption requirements.
• Ongoing program support. ROI supports employers in implementing UpSkill, including recruitment activities, apprentice performance management, evaluation, and mentorship.

ROI also connects employers and students to industry‑recognized certifications, including CompTIA, OSHA, Microsoft, and Project Management, helping align skill development with real workforce needs.

Employers are also eligible for financial incentives through Indiana Chamber’s EARN, a state-supported program that can offset wages and training costs, making it easier and more affordable to invest in early talent while building a strong, sustainable workforce.

UpSkill Applicant Timeline

• January-February: Information sessions at schools
• March-April: Resume writing, mock interviews, and employer visits
• April: Applications due and interview days
• May: Selection announcement and orientation
• June: Optional start date
• August: Official start date

Participating Employers

Employers of all sizes and industries are stepping up to support student career experiences across the Indiana Uplands. These participating organizations represent the depth, diversity, and opportunity within our regional workforce.

Ready to Get Started?

If you have additional questions, we’re happy to help! Visit the UpSkill FAQs page or reach out to us at upskill@regionalopportunityinc.org.