Career Advancement at William Newton Hospital
Launch Your Healthcare Career with WNH's Apprenticeship Program!
William Newton Hospital (WNH) is excited to announce the launch of its Career Advancement Program, a registered apprenticeship initiative designed to address healthcare workforce shortages and provide valuable career opportunities. The focus of this program is to "earn while you learn", offering structured training and mentorship in high-demand healthcare roles. In partnership with Hamilton Ryker/TalentGro and the Kansas Hospital Association, WNH is currently collaborating with Cowley College and Winfield High School Health Careers students with plans to expand the program to include an RN apprenticeship through the Southwestern College Nursing Program in the near future. The program combines on-the-job training with technical instruction and mentorship from experienced preceptors.
Current Apprenticeship Opportunities:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Medical Assistant
- Phlebotomy
Apply Now!
Contact Cheryl Brock, Program Coordinator
Email or call 620-221-2300, ext. 1129
Kansas Apprenticeship Act
In July 2023, Governor Kelly signed into law the Kansas Apprenticeship Act, establishing a tax credit and grant incentive program for businesses and non-profits hiring registered apprentices. It was separated into three specific areas including $7.5 million in tax credits to for-profit businesses, $2.5 million for non-profits and healthcare, and $3 million for K-12 Education. This funding will help WNH take a proactive step in addressing critical healthcare workforce shortages. Officially approved by the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship and the U.S. Department of Labor in March 2025, this initiative represents a significant investment in the future of healthcare within the Winfield community and beyond.
The Apprenticeship Experience
- Learn and Earn: Gain practical, on-the-job training while receiving a paycheck.
- Structured Training: Benefit from a combination of on-the-job experience and related technical instruction.
- Mentorship: Receive guidance and support from experienced preceptors, carefully selected from within WNH.
- Career Advancement: Build valuable skills and industry-recognized credentials.
- Education Requirements: Clinical occupations will have educational requirements.
These programs offer training opportunities for high-demand, high-wage occupations, including Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Phlebotomists, Surgical Technicians, and Medical Coding Specialists. WNH is starting its program by offering opportunities for CNAs, Phlebotomists, and Medical Assistants.
Apprenticeships are crucial for ensuring Kansas workers have the necessary skills to advance their careers and support their families. These programs also address the chronic shortage of healthcare workers, particularly in rural areas.
Since September 2022, there has been a significant increase in interest statewide. The number of Kansans in apprenticeship programs, the number of occupations with programs, and the number of employers offering apprenticeships have all risen substantially.
The apprenticeship experience is designed to provide a well-rounded and supportive learning environment. Apprentices will benefit from a structured training regimen that combines hands-on, on-the-job experience with related technical instruction. They will also receive invaluable mentorship from experienced preceptors, carefully selected from within the hospital for their expertise and ability to guide and nurture new talent. While education requirements will remain in place, particularly for clinical occupations, the program's "earn while you learn" model offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience while receiving financial compensation. This approach not only makes healthcare careers more accessible but also helps to attract and retain dedicated professionals.
Visit www.kansascommerce.gov to learn more about apprenticeship programs and their benefits to rural healthcare.