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Army Launches Enlisted Training Corps Pilot Program to Introduce Community College Students to Military and Public Service

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The US Army has launched a new Enlisted Training Corps Pilot Program at Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg, Indiana, to introduce community college students to pathways for military and public service. The program, established under the National Defense Authorization Act, Section 548, aims to expand access to Army service and strengthen civic engagement. Two-year community college students who participate in the program will earn a three-credit hour course, "Foundation of Military and Public Service," which covers military and public service career pathways, US military history and traditions, customs, courtesies, and physical readiness, among other topics.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Enlisted Training Corps Pilot Program is a new initiative introduced by the US Army to provide community college students with a unique opportunity to learn about military and public service.
  • The program is established under the National Defense Authorization Act, Section 548, and aims to expand access to Army service and strengthen civic engagement.
  • Two-year community college students who participate in the program will earn a three-credit hour course, "Foundation of Military and Public Service."
  • Students who successfully complete the program and earn an associate degree with Ivy Tech have a chance to enlist in the Army at the E4 pay grade, which is a full 30% pay increase over the standard entry level.
  • The program is designed to educate, inspire, and prepare students for potential service in the US Army by offering a no-cost, values-based curriculum centered on leadership, ethics, military fundamentals, and holistic development.
  • The Enlisted Training Corps Pilot Program is informative, not binding, and provides a low-barrier pathway for exploring service.
  • The program is available to Ivy Tech students enrolled at the Sellersburg and Columbus campuses.
  • Students participating in the program will learn from Army instructors and gain exposure to military service through immersive instruction.

Military and public service career pathways

  • US military history and traditions
  • Customs, courtesies and ethical leadership
  • Physical readiness and wellness
  • Ethical behavior and decision-making frameworks

Statistics:

  • 80% of the US Army comprises enlisted corps personnel (Mann).
  • The Enlisted Training Corps Pilot Program is available to Ivy Tech students enrolled at the Sellersburg and Columbus campuses.
  • 30% pay increase for junior enlisted recruits who enlist in the Army at the E4 pay grade compared to the standard entry level (Pollio).

Sources:

  • U.S. Army-Asia Pacific, "Select Community College Students Now Have an Opportunity to Earn Credit While Learning About the Army" (no publication date)
  • Lt. Gen. Johnny Davis, "Launch of Army Enlisted Training Corps Pilot Program" (Aug. 12, 2025)
  • Brig. Gen. Justin Mann, "Establishment of Enlisted Training Corps (Pilot Program)" (no publication date)
  • Dr. Marty Pollio, "Ivy Tech Community College President" (no publication date)

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