MCALLEN, Texas – South Texas College, along with partner DHR Health, held a ceremony to celebrate the establishment of a groundbreaking nursing apprenticeship program for STC students. 

The program will provide individuals pursing an associate’s degree in nursing the opportunity to earn a minimum of $14 an hour to train at DHR Health while completing their courses and clinicals. 

Approved and under the regulation of the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship, it is the first program of its kind in the country that specifically aims to mitigate the nationwide nursing shortage by alleviating the financial burden many students face. 

Participants that complete 4,000 hours of relevant work experience will additionally receive a certificate from the DoL, boosting their desirability in the job market. 

Dozens of VIPs were present for the announcement. Senior reporter Patricia Martinez covered the event for the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service. Here are her pictures from the press conference:

Pictures