Masonic Homes Kentucky recently established a registered apprenticeship program for certified nursing assistants. Masonic’s nursing apprenticeship team, led by Assistant Director of Nursing Stephanie Crane, BSN and Staff Development Coordinator Brandi Bennett, RN, spent several months developing and customizing the program before submitting it for approval to the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. The program was approved this summer and two students from Seneca High School were selected as Masonic’s first apprentices.

“Apprenticeship is a great way to connect students to career with a firm transition plan from high school to the workforce and post-secondary opportunities. We are thankful to Masonic Homes Kentucky in establishing an Apprenticeship program and including JCPS students,” said Superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools Marty Pollio, PhD.

This modern apprenticeship is an employee training program that combines on-the-job training and classroom instruction under supervision of experienced health care professionals. It is a proven strategy for recruiting, training and retaining employees – perfect for filling our talent pipeline with highly skilled, diverse and productive workers. The apprentice will be trained specifically for our culture and expectations. They are expected to complete at least 144 hours of related health care training and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training.

The apprenticeship program will bring new talent to Masonic and help introduce students to the health care industry. Masonic nurses will have the opportunity to share their knowledge, earn more money and recognition, and gain leadership skills by applying to become mentors to the apprentices. We are not only improving our talent pipeline but also creating new opportunities for our current employees to ensure consistent delivery of remarkable service and quality care to our residents. Kentucky has a total of only 250 apprenticeship sites representing all industries and we are proud to be part of this program and specifically be leading and innovating the future of health care.

Masonic is a founding business member of the Academies of Louisville. The apprenticeship signing event was on October 30. We currently partner with Seneca High School and participate in their health care, horticulture, security, IT, and childcare academies. While the apprenticeship is geared toward high school students, anyone is welcome to apply. The Seneca scholars in our program are Nicole Kimmel and Reeya Monger.

“Seneca High School’s partnership with Masonic expands vision, opportunities and preparation for young people. As our work evolves, the passion and commitment of both organizations will produce better skilled employees and more caring citizens for our community. We are honored to work with Masonic. We appreciate their belief in Seneca scholars,” said Executive Administrator of High Schools Kim Morales.

Masonic has also been approved to provide the Medicaid Nurse Aide Training Program.

March 17, 2019