Keep Up The Good Work: Luann Thomas Ewald, University of Michigan Hospitals

June 2, 2026 Luanne Thomas Ewald

Luann Thomas Ewald

At University of Michigan Health, we know preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals requires strong partnerships with organizations that understand the evolving needs of both students and employers.

That’s why our long-standing relationship with Washtenaw Community College is so valuable to our organization and our community.

Healthcare is constantly changing, and WCC has consistently demonstrated an ability to respond quickly to workforce needs by developing relevant, high-quality programs that prepare students for in-demand careers. 

Over the past decade, Michigan Medicine and other local healthcare organizations have provided input and guidance that helped shape WCC’s Surgical Technology associate degree program and certificate programs such as Medical Assisting, Cardiac Telemetry Technician and Sterile Processing.

These programs are helping build a strong pipeline of talented professionals who are prepared to make an immediate impact in patient care settings.

We’ve also been proud to partner with WCC on innovative workforce development initiatives like Michigan Medicine’s Service Desk Apprenticeship Program. Since launching in 2018, the program has provided entry-level candidates with paid, hands-on experience in frontline technology support while they complete technical coursework through WCC.

Apprentices earn a U.S. Department of Labor journeyman’s card along with a 16-credit Computer Systems Technology certificate from WCC, creating meaningful career opportunities while strengthening the future healthcare workforce.

Beyond academics and workforce training, WCC continues to serve as an important community gathering place. Michigan Medicine frequently utilizes the college’s Conference Services facilities for trainings, meetings and professional development opportunities. The campus is welcoming, accessible and designed to support collaboration among organizations working to improve our region.

Washtenaw Community College plays a vital role in strengthening our local workforce and expanding educational opportunity for people across our community.

We are grateful for our partnership and appreciate WCC’s continued commitment to innovation, collaboration and student success. Keep up the good work!

Tags: Apprenticeships, Cardiac Telemetry, June 2026, Keep Up The Good Work, Medical Assisting, On The Record, Sterile Processing, Surgical Technology

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