MRI techs, certified nursing assistants and other training program geared toward expanding the health care workforce pipeline.
Underscoring its commitment to excellence and advancing health care in Texas and beyond, the University of Texas Medical Branch has been designated as a Registered Apprenticeship Provider. This designation enables UTMB to offer programs that allow employees to earn while they learn.
UTMB’s apprenticeship programs blend well-defined curriculum and structured, hands-on training to create an immersive experience that gives apprentices the necessary skills and knowledge to grow into jobs at UTMB and begin successful careers in their chosen fields.
The curriculum is provided by community educational partners to ensure the programs align with current industry standards and practices. Hands-on training is the core component of the programs, allowing apprentices to apply theoretical knowledge and develop skills in real-world situations.
“The apprenticeship programs aim to provide an innovative approach to filling existing and anticipated gaps in our workforce by leveraging our own schools and community educational partners to create new employment pipelines.,” said Clara Brown, associate director of workforce development at UTMB.
The medical branch currently has two active apprenticeship programs—MRI technologist trainee and certified nursing assistant. Three others are under development—surgical technologist, registered nurse and registered nurse resident.
UTMB also intends to obtain approval for four other apprenticeship programs—facilities technician, medical assistant, sterile processing technician and neurodiagnostic technologist.
“Apprenticeships are one way that we can secure the future of our workforce,” Brown said. “They allow us to provide new and existing employees with career pathways through on-the-job training and upskilling that they might not have access to otherwise.”
UTMB was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor for its designation as a Registered Apprenticeship Provider.
“Thoughtfully and competently trained staff are critical to maintaining the high quality of care and deep commitment to excellence for which UTMB is known,” he said. “These programs allow us to build and strengthen a pipeline of caring and dedicated health care professionals to support the workforce needs of UTMB and the medical field in general.”