Indigenous high school students in Nebraska are getting a head start in a challenging job market.

The latest federal jobs report shows teen unemployment at 14.5% nationally, compared with 4.2% overall. A Winnebago-based apprenticeship program operated by Ho-Chunk Inc. is helping students earn academic credit while gaining hands-on work experience.

Terri Lee Medina, community programs manager for Ho-Chunk Inc., said the experience can also help students make informed career choices before investing time and money in additional education.

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"Save them some money if they know, 'Oh, I wanna go to be a teacher,' or, 'I wanna go be a construction worker.' They know their avenues to take to do that, and then hopefully return on investment," Medina explained. "We've been able to see some of those that are starting to come back through our internship program, our collegiate program here at Ho-Chunk."

Since launching in 2022, the apprenticeship has helped more than 200 students gain on-the-job experience. Medina pointed out program graduates have gone on to pursue vocational certifications, college degrees, military service and careers within tribal organizations.

For young people entering the workforce, one of the biggest challenges can be getting hired without previous experience. Medina noted employers often expect applicants to have both education and practical skills, creating barriers for students just starting their careers. She stressed apprenticeship programs can help bridge the gap while teaching professionalism, customer service and other skills employers value.

"They either have the education and they don't have the experience, or they have the experience but they don't have the education," Medina observed. "I think it is removing those barriers and having them believe that, 'Oh, I don't have a driver's license,' and we go that extra mile and we help them study for an exam, go take them driving."

Participants in the apprenticeship program earn 10 high school credits per semester while exploring career options. Medina added several former participants have moved into leadership positions.