Parkland College has launched its first healthcare registered apprenticeship in partnership with Gibson Area Hospital, creating a new pathway for students to become certified surgical technologists while earning income. 

The new apprenticeship program focuses on the occupation of surgical technologist and combines academic instruction with paid, hands-on clinical experience. Apprentices will spend two years at Parkland College completing an Associate in Applied Science degree in surgical technology in preparation for national certification. 

"This program represents an exciting milestone as Parkland’s first healthcare registered apprenticeship," Parkland Director of Apprenticeships Aimee Densmore said. "Gibson Area Hospital is deeply committed to growing its own workforce, and this model allows students to earn while they learn while preparing for in-demand careers that directly support patient care in our region."

To complete the apprenticeship, participants will spend an additional six months working full-time at Gibson Area Hospital, further developing their skills in a real-world healthcare setting. 

One unique feature of the program is the opportunity for apprentices to be paid during the clinical portion of their degree. This approach allows students to earn income while completing required clinical hours and fulfilling the related technical instruction for the apprenticeship. 

As a rural healthcare provider, Gibson Area Hospital is committed to delivering high-quality care while building a strong local workforce. The organization has a long-standing focus on developing talent from within, supporting individuals with limited experience, and guiding them toward careers as highly skilled healthcare professionals.

"Gibson Area Hospital is proud to be the first hospital to partner with Parkland’s apprenticeship program," Gibson Area Hospital Executive Director of Nursing Adrian Feldkamp said. "We have valued our collaboration with Parkland’s healthcare programs, and I'm especially excited to expand this partnership to the Surgical Technology program as a proud alumnus. Our hope is not only to support students through their training but to continue growing them and strengthening our team from within. My professional journey highlights the strength of Parkland’s education system and Gibson Area Hospital’s vision for internal growth, evolving from a surgical technologist to executive director of nursing."

Parkland College looks forward to expanding its apprenticeship programs and continuing to collaborate with industry leaders to create meaningful career pathways for students. Businesses in District 505 that wish to explore opportunities available within an apprenticeship program partnership may contact Densmore at adensmore@parkland.edu.

Individuals interested in applying for apprenticeship programs can learn more on Parkland College's website. News Release.