Madison, Wis. – Today four ophthalmic assistants in training became the first group of registered apprentices in the state of Wisconsin. During a signing ceremony, the apprentices inked their commitment to advancing their education and beginning their careers in healthcare.
SSM Health’s new Ophthalmic Assistant Registered Apprenticeship program is a partnership between the healthcare organization, Madison College and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards. For the first nine months of the program, apprentices receive classroom lessons at Madison College while also participating in paid on-the-job clinical training within SSM Health’s eye care clinics. Clinical training continues for another nine months after classroom-based learning concludes.
In addition to their salary and benefits, SSM Health also pays for the apprentices’ educational costs, materials and the certified ophthalmic assistant exam to be completed at the conclusion of their coursework. This financial support means there is no out-of-pocket cost for participation. Once apprentices complete their program, they will be employed as ophthalmic assistants with SSM Health, with a minimum two-year work commitment.
“Training programs and apprenticeships like this are critical to the future success of our state’s healthcare workforce,” says Sue Anderson, SSM Health Wisconsin Regional President. “I hope that by removing some of the financial barriers to education and investing in these students and future healthcare workers we are able to make healthcare careers more accessible to individuals who feel called to this work.”
As long-term partners in healthcare education, SSM Health is honored to join Madison College in training the next generation of healthcare workers.
“Madison College is proud to deliver our high-quality curriculum and instruction for this apprenticeship,” said Madison College President Jack Daniels. “We remain committed to our regional healthcare partners, like SSM Health, in both addressing workforce challenges and creating accessible and innovative apprenticeship pathways for employees who aspire to advance their careers.”
One of the things that makes this program stand apart is its designation as a registered apprenticeship through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards. SSM Health sees value in the support the Bureau offers in recruiting well-qualified apprenticeship candidates while providing learners with a high-quality experience and a clear career path.
“Wisconsin continues to expand apprenticeships serving in-demand industries throughout the state,” said David Polk, Director of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards. “This is possible thanks to the ongoing commitment of our dedicated partners and staff, and we look forward to further expansion as we continue to serve as a national leader in apprenticeship innovation.”
Now approximately eight weeks into their training, SSM Health’s apprentices are excited and engaged in their learning. Apprentice Jami Gilbert shared that this program offered her the opportunity to change careers and by gaining classroom learning at the same time as her clinical training, she is excited to see how her career grows. She also values the opportunity the apprenticeship program gives her in making meaningful connections with others.
“Everyone in the clinic has been very supportive, kind and helpful,” said Gilbert. “The staff and doctors are always willing to answer my questions and help me.”
Students began their apprenticeship journey on August 28, 2023. The apprenticeship is designed to aid up to seven apprentices. Qualified candidates must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
