Summary
Tammy Brock, the chief nursing officer at Rockcastle Regional Hospital, received the Kentucky Board of Education’s Kelly Award for Business and Education Partnership for her exceptional collaboration with the Rockcastle Area Technology Center. This partnership has led to the development of a registered apprenticeship program that allows high school students to gain valuable experience in healthcare careers while working towards their Certified Nursing Assistant certification.
This initiative exemplifies the power of combining education with hands-on training to create a skilled workforce. By integrating earn-and-learn opportunities, the program not only prepares students for successful careers in healthcare but also addresses workforce needs in the region, showcasing the potential of apprenticeship models to foster local talent and strengthen community ties.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story highlights the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and employers in creating effective apprenticeship programs. By offering structured pathways for students to transition from education to employment, such initiatives can significantly enhance workforce readiness and meet industry demands.