SEALs are structured, scalable programs ranging from just eight weeks to two years in length and include industry certifications tailored for any sector. They are designed to meet the skills that employers demand, are geared toward both adult and youth populations, and satisfy Indiana’s new graduation pathway requirements.

Students at the Heartland Career Center who are enrolled in any one of the four SEAL programs earn dual credits for either Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes University while still in high school. Each program also includes more than 1,250 hours of work-based learning and related instruction, and has the support of multiple employer partners eager to provide students with those opportunities.

Heartland expects in the upcoming school year that roughly 100 students will participate in both the precision machining and welding programs, about 20 in precision agriculture and approximately 70 in health sciences. Students enrolled in health sciences earn five industry-recognized certifications (Certified Nursing Assistant, CPR, First Aid, Dementia Care and Home Health Aide).

“The SEAL programs fit perfectly into our mission of providing a stimulating environment and opportunities for students to learn the technical skills, attitudes and knowledge designed to promote occupational preparation,” said Mark Hobbs, Director of the Heartland Career Center. “We are excited to offer these collaborative opportunities to students, their parents and our supportive business and industry partners in our region.” 

Heartland was founded in 1965. Its mission is to provide a stimulating environment and opportunities for students to learn technical skills, attitudes, knowledge and understanding designed to promote occupational preparation that will be effective in today’s and tomorrow’s technical society.

“Heartland Career Center is a great example of a school that understands the value of public-private partnerships,” DeGolyer said. The local partnerships developed through the SEALs allow forward-thinking employers to locate and play a part in developing qualified talent, enable students to build relationships with employers and showcase their unique skillsets in the workforce, and provides an opportunity for the school to connect classroom learning with the local business environment.”

DWD projects Indiana employers will need to fill 1 million plus jobs in the next 10 years, half of which will not require a four-year college degree, but some type of certification or credential beyond a high school diploma.

The Office of Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship is part of Gov. Holcomb’s NextLevel Jobs Agenda.

For more information about the SEAL program, email the DWD Office of Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship at wbl@dwd.in.gov.