Summary
Wake Tech has launched North Carolina's first Community College Dental Assisting Apprenticeship Program in collaboration with Lane & Associates Family Dentistry. This initiative aims to provide students with an 'earn-while-you-learn' model, enhancing their education and workforce readiness.
The program reflects a growing trend in workforce development that prioritizes innovative educational pathways and strong partnerships between educational institutions and industry. As the demand for skilled dental assistants increases, this apprenticeship opportunity will help meet critical workforce needs in the healthcare sector.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story highlights the importance of expanding apprenticeship opportunities into healthcare fields, which have been historically limited. By creating new pathways for students, this initiative not only supports workforce development but also addresses the skills gap in the dental assisting profession.