MADISON, WI — As Wisconsin and the nation continue to navigate workforce challenges, SSM Health is proud to lead the way in creating meaningful career opportunities in healthcare. Through a powerful collaboration and a shared commitment to education and equity, SSM Health is opening doors for individuals who dream to make a difference in their communities through careers in healthcare.
Last year, the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin (WDBSCW) was awarded a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) grant for Apprenticeships Building America 2. Through this grant, WDBSCW established private-public partnerships with SSM Health, Madison College, and the Department of Workforce Development (DWD). This funding focuses on expanding and building new healthcare apprenticeship pathways to meet the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals.
“By investing in career pathways and on-the-job training solutions, like apprenticeships, SSM Health is inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals to serve our communities with skills and compassion,” stated Seth Lentz, Executive Director for the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin.
With this support, SSM Health partnered with the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards, and Madison College to launch two Registered Apprenticeship programs: Surgical Technologist and Medical Assistant.
“These programs reflect our deep commitment to growing the healthcare workforce,” said Sandra Riley, SSM Health System Director of Workforce Development. “We’re excited to offer future caregivers a pathway to success; complete with paid training, comprehensive support, and a rewarding career with SSM Health.”
The programs officially launched on Tuesday, August 19, with 11 apprentices signing their program agreements at Madison College. Participants will receive hands-on experience at SSM Health facilities while completing classroom instruction, earning wages and gaining valuable skills every step of the way.
Thanks to the ABA2 grant, tuition is fully covered, and students benefit from a wide range of supportive services, including work attire, transportation assistance, childcare support, and emergency housing. This “earn while you learn” model removes financial barriers and ensures that aspiring healthcare professionals can thrive.
The Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin also extends similar support to more than 20 youth apprentices, high school juniors and seniors gaining paid experience through SSM Health. These students receive access to the same supportive services, helping them build a strong foundation for future success.
"Apprenticeship programs like SSM Health’s are examples of smart investments to address our worker quantity challenge and to train the next generation of our workforce," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. “We're thankful for the ongoing commitment of our dedicated partners, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the continued support of Gov. Tony Evers who prioritizes strategies to close gaps in critical workforce sectors. The healthcare workforce is vital to both the well-being of our communities and the sustainability of our healthcare system."
“Partnerships like this are key to help more Wisconsinites pursue and advance their careers in healthcare fields, one of a growing number of sectors supported by the earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship model," said David Polk, director of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards.
SSM Health is committed to growing and expanding the workforce in Wisconsin and beyond. Thanks to the ABA2 initiative and the funding awarded to the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin, these programs will do more than just support individual people.
“We are incredibly grateful for this grant funding,” Riley added. “It’s more than just financial support. It’s an investment in people, in communities, and in the future of healthcare. Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient workforce that will deliver exceptional care for generations to come.”
To learn more about apprenticeship and employment opportunities at SSM Health, visit: https://jobs.ssmhealth.com/us/en/apprenticeship-program.
