New State Office Selects First Executive Director
Darrel Zeck
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indiana Department of Workforce Development has established the Office of Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship, called for by Executive Order from Governor Eric Holcomb. Darrel Zeck has been named the office’s first executive director. He will lead Indiana’s apprenticeship and work-based learning initiatives.
He most recently served as vice president for Stark Industries, an aerospace manufacturing company in Terre Haute. Prior to Stark, Zeck was employed by the Terre Haute International Airport and the city of Terre Haute in various operations, public affairs and economic development capacities. He was appointed by Governor Mike Pence and reappointed by Gov. Holcomb as a state trustee for Ivy Tech Community College, serving as secretary and chairman of its Workforce Alignment Committee. Zeck is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and the Indiana Air National Guard, serving most recently with the 181st Intelligence Wing.
As part of his role with Stark Industries, Zeck spearheaded a successful work-based learning program achieving successful results and prepared many quality employees for meaningful careers and advancement opportunities. The program collaborated with several K-12 school districts, three colleges and universities and the local WorkOne office to create flexible, work-based learning opportunities for high school students, college students and adults alike.
The Office of Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship will have many functions. It will work with the U.S. Department of Labor to enhance and expand federally-approved apprenticeships. It will work closely with Indiana businesses and educational institutions to develop other relevant work-based learning (“earn and learn”) programs, and will connect Hoosiers with those opportunities.