First LPN Apprenticeship program in Mississippi begins at MGCCC

Today is a big day for 20 students starting the licensed practical nursing apprenticeship program through MGCCC and Singing River Health System.

“Nervous, but excited.” Some first day jitters for Theresa Williams as she begins the 16-month LPN apprenticeship program through MGCCC and Singing River Health System.

All of the apprentices in the program currently work in healthcare but were unable to become nurses through a traditional program due to personal barriers. “A lot of times during the nursing program, this is a perfect opportunity because we’re able to go to school, go to work, and get paid while doing so.”

During the program, apprentices will complete the theory and lab requirements two days a week, while also participating in mentored on-the-job clinical training before taking the NCLEX licensure exam to become an LPN. Singing River Health System Executive Director of Human Resources Jessica Lewis said, “There’s so many others that are just like Theresa that want to do the exact same thing. By coming to our health system and working with us, we’re going to provide an avenue where they get paid while they learn. They’re going to get their certification credentials and to grow for them and their families as well.”

Apprentices in the program were vetted by their current employers and selected by Singing River and will work for the health system after completing the program. School of Nursing and Health Professions Associate Vice President Dr. Joan Hendrix said, “Everybody knows about the national nursing shortage. So, this is going to grow the nurses more and will give the opportunity to those folks who can’t meet that traditional pathway to see if it’s right for them and then transition from a registered nurse or further.”

Other states have had similar programs, but this will be the first of its kind in Mississippi.