Summary
Governor Josh Stein announced the launch of STEP-NC: Health Care, North Carolina's first health care apprenticeship program, during his visit to Broughton Hospital in Morganton. The initiative aims to address health care worker shortages by providing career pathways for high school students and adult learners through pilot programs at Broughton and other facilities.
This apprenticeship program exemplifies efforts to strengthen the workforce in the health care sector, particularly in behavioral health. By partnering with educational institutions and local organizations, the program seeks to create a robust pipeline of trained professionals to meet the growing demand in North Carolina's health care system.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This initiative is significant as it represents a proactive approach to filling critical staffing gaps in the health care sector through registered apprenticeships. By targeting high school graduates and adult learners, the program not only fosters skill development but also addresses the urgent need for qualified health care professionals.