The partnership is an apprenticeship program that gives students paid work opportunities at Munson Healthcare facilities while still in school.
Kirtland Community College and Munson Healthcare have formed a partnership that creates a pipeline for students in the Surgical Technology program to earn money in the field at Munson Healthcare facilities while they are still working through surgical technology classes at Kirtland Community College.
According to an article on Kirtland Community College’s website, Shelley Spencer, who serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer of Munson Healthcare, shared her excitement for the apprenticeship program and what it means for both institutions. She is quoted as saying, “At Munson Healthcare, we’re thrilled to collaborate with Kirtland Community College on this innovative apprenticeship program. By offering aspiring surgical technologists the chance to gain practical experience within our healthcare system, we’re not only investing in the future of our workforce but also ensuring the delivery of high-quality care to our communities. This partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and ultimately, enhancing patient outcomes.”
The pipeline program is called the Surgical Technologist Apprenticeship program. Surgical technologists work alongside surgeons to help prepare for surgeries and assist during procedures. Students who are in the Surgical Technology program at Kirtland Community College will learn the skills they need to be able to fulfill this role, and if taking part in the apprenticeship program, they will also be able to perform their clinical hours at a Munson Healthcare facility while earning money and receiving benefits from Munson Healthcare as an employee.
Nicole Claussen, the Program Director of Kirtland’s Surgical Technology program, explained what makes this program unique and beneficial, saying, “This is an incredible opportunity for our Surgical Technology students to not only get paid while they are in school, but also to have a job and a sign on bonus waiting for them upon graduation.” She added, “In my 21-year history as Certified Surgical Technologist, I can’t remember a better time to enter this field with these types of incentives being offered. It’s an amazing healthcare career and I’ve seen it change the lives of students that have graduated from our program.”
If a student wants to participate, they must apply to the apprenticeship program. If they are accepted into the program, they will begin receiving payment during their clinical hours. Students will also be entitled to a $10,000 early hire bonus which will be distributed in two installments. Once they become a certified Surgical Technician, their role at Munson Healthcare will transition from apprentice to a full time employee.
For more information about Kirtland Community College, visit the school’s website.