Students who attend the New Castle Career Center (NCCC) are given the opportunity to earn upwards of forty college credits while still in high school. Students earn these credits by taking dual-credit courses, attending early college courses, and participating in NCCC programs. The credited courses are taught by teachers and instructors with the required training to teach at a college level.

Along with earning college credits, students also participate in on-the-job training with employers who partner with the NCCC. Many companies in Henry County allow students to work as general employees to gain this training and jumpstart their careers.

When the opportunity arose for NCCC to join the Department of Workforce Development and Ivy Tech’s Students Earn And Learn (SEAL) program, Mackenzie Jackson, NCCC Director, jumped on it. SEAL programs include an educational element as well as an on-the-job component. SEAL puts emphasis on employer needs, creating sustainable partnerships, and offering industry certifications. 

On April 8, 2021, the New Castle Career Center hosted two SEAL Launch Programs to honor the employers who partner with NCCC, Instructors who work diligently to provide a rigorous college curriculum, and students and graduates who participate in the many opportunities offered by NCCC.

The Instructors gave each employer certificates and plaques for their appreciated partnership. Graduates from the programs and current students spoke about their experiences in the program and working in the community as part of the work-based learning curriculum. A representative from Ivy Tech explained the dual credit and diplomas available to students, and that students can graduate with an Ivy Tech degree prior to high school.

“I’m very humbled and proud to work with the skilled instructors and partner with companies within the community,” noted Jackson.

During the SEAL launch program, several companies and businesses were recognized for their partnerships with NCCC programs including Welding, Machine Trades, and Health Science Education. Claire Berger from the Department of Workforce Development awarded certificates to Angie Talbott, Lauren Hankenhoff, and Lainey Millikan the Health Science Education Instructors. Berger also awarded certificates to Greg Dickerson (Precision Machining Instructor) and Ronnie Perrin (Welding Instructor).

Companies and businesses recognized for partnering with Welding and Machine Trades include- Crown Equipment, Hoosier Feeder, HyFlex Corporation, Magna Machine and Tool, Service Engineering, and Spiceland Wood Products.

Companies and businesses recognized for partnering with Health Science Education include- 321Go Kids, Addison Place, Forest Ridge, Glen Oaks Health Campus, Henry Community Health, Henry County Center for Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Henry County Health Department, Henry County Homecare/Hospice, Heritage House of Richmond, Hickory Creek Healthcare, IU Ball Memorial Health Cancer Center, Lamberson and Malott Eye Center, New Castle Community School Corporation Health Services, Parker Elementary Health Services, Springhurst Health Campus, Stonebrooke Rehabilitation Center, The Springs of Richmond, The Waters of New Castle, Walgreens Pharmacy, and WIC Program.

For more information about the SEAL program, visit INwbl.com. For information regarding the NCCC, visit nccareercenter.org