Apprenticeships aren't just for the skilled trades anymore!
Washtenaw Community College and the Michigan Medicine Health Information Technology & Services Department have partnered to launch a unique, paid apprenticeship program in Healthcare Information Technology, offering a fast track into one of today’s most in-demand fields.
Participants earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience inside the world-renowned University of Michigan hospital system while working toward a Computer Systems Technology certificate from WCC.
With tuition covered, wages paid and a Department of Labor journeyman’s card awarded upon completion, the program is a game-changer for students.
It’s also a model for how education and industry can collaborate to strengthen the workforce. Learn more about how students and employers can benefit from an apprenticeship program.
Phil Atkin and Kierra Williams (pictured above) are among the WCC students who have launched successful IT careers in the healthcare industry since the program was unveiled seven years ago.
Michigan Medicine has hired 61% of the apprentices as full-time employees, including Atkins and Williams.
“The program emphasized practical troubleshooting skills, which have proven invaluable in my current role at Michigan Medicine, where I am responsible for diagnosing and resolving technical issues,” says Williams, 25.
Atkin, 41, joined as a Service Desk Apprentice in 2021 and is now a full-time End User Computing Specialist.
“The apprenticeship program and journeyman’s certificate jumpstarted my formal introduction into the IT field and gave me opportunities to pursue additional certifications," Atkins said. "My on-the-job exposure allowed me to transition into a full-time role as I was completing the apprenticeship.”
Kyrsten Rue, WCC’s Assistant Dean of Career and Technical Education, says the program exemplifies effective college-industry partnerships.
“The Michigan Medicine team understands the value of aligning student learning in the classroom with a high-quality, accredited certification program, alongside the practical experience,” Rue says.
Anyone interested in the Michigan Medicine apprenticeship program should fill out an apprenticeship inquiry form and a member of the Office of Apprentice will contact you.
Partnering with WCC
Interested in partnering with WCC to create a custom workforce training pipeline? The process is easy! Email [email protected] or call the Office of Apprenticeship at 734-677-5221.
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This story was originally published in the Fall 2025 edition of Launch Magazine. Read or download the full edition.
Tags: Apprenticeships, Fall 2025, Information Technology, Launch