The Learn Academy is designed to provide students with a two-year program that includes classroom learning, industry training, and paid internships. Students will earn both high school and college credits through Ivy Tech's dual credit and dual enrollment courses, preparing them for high-wage, high-demand careers. In partnership with the Indiana Next Generation Manufacturing Competitiveness Center (IN-MaC), Ivy Tech Community College, and local employers, Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative (WCCC) is launching the Learn Academy of Clinton County to create pathways for students to move from high school to industry and post-secondary education opportunities.

Lisa Deck, IN-MaC's Program Manager Education Workforce, emphasized the importance of integrating education with industry experience. "We aim to increase the hands-on experience while focusing on the academic, technical, and durable skills needed for a successful future," Deck said.

"This partnership is an excellent example of how collaboration between education and industry can benefit students and the community," said Georgia Everett, Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative's Director of Career and Technical Education. "We are thrilled to provide students with meaningful opportunities to develop the skills needed to thrive in today's workforce."

Penne Hout, Site Manager for Covestro, expressed enthusiasm for the program's potential. "The manufacturing industry needs high-quality employees who are engaged and productive. I'm so excited to be part of a program that allows industry to mentor students and prepares them to enter the professional workforce," Hout said.

The program is set to launch in Fall 2025, serving students from Clinton Central, Clinton Prairie, Frankfort, and Rossville high schools. Students will gain hands-on experience through integrated classroom and industry training, culminating in paid internships during their final semester. 

Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative is hosting their first annual open house on Tuesday, February 11 from 5:30-7:00 pm. Come and learn about the different pathways available to high school students in Clinton County through partnerships with the 4 county schools, Ivy Tech Community College, and local industry partners.

As schools begin meeting with students to schedule the 2025-2026 school year, be sure to check out the different Career & Technical Education pathways that are offered through Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative at all of our locations throughout the county.