Nashville Students Set for Bright Futures in Healthcare
In the heart of Nashville, an exciting initiative is taking shape that aims to pave the way for high school students towards a flourishing career in healthcare. Thanks to a generous $2 million grant awarded through the Better Together initiative, students at Maplewood and Pearl-Cohn high schools now have the opportunity to earn a Central Sterile Processing certificate while still in high school.
Empowering the Next Generation
The Better Together partnership links Nashville State Community College and Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) with the backing of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce. This collaborative effort aims to help students not just graduate but to prepare for a successful transition into higher education or the workforce. And what’s even better? Upon graduating from high school, students will be able to dive into credit-bearing clinical experiences during the summer with major Nashville healthcare employers: Ascension, HCA Healthcare, and Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Ready to Work
After completing the program, students will be poised to take a nationally recognized certification examination and, with it, earn an industry-recognized credential. This credential opens doors to a high-demand and high-wage career path in a field that’s always on the lookout for skilled professionals. Interested students also have the option to further their education at Nashville State and enroll in the Surgical Technology program—a perfect next step for those who want to expand their skills.
What Does a Central Sterile Technician Do?
Now, you might be wondering what a Central Sterile Technician actually does. These vital employees are responsible for storing, cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and preparing medical equipment that medical teams use during procedures. This isn’t just a job; it’s a stepping stone to something even bigger. Those looking to climb the career ladder can apply credits from their Central Sterile Processing certificate towards a Surgical Technology A.A.S. degree.
Support from Educators and Community Leaders
Nashville State President, Dr. Shanna L. Jackson, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Through Better Together and other structured partnerships, we’ve created runways for students to take flight.” She added that this dual enrollment opportunity not only sets students up for success post-graduation, but it also meets workforce needs in the community.
This sentiment was echoed by MNPS Director of Schools, Dr. Adrienne Battle, who highlighted the importance of partnerships with higher education and healthcare industries in providing students with pathways into rewarding careers right in Nashville.
Building a Bright Future for Nashville
Stephanie Coleman, the chief talent development officer for the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, reinforced the idea that this grant partnership exemplifies a commitment to building a skilled workforce in Nashville. “By merging educational opportunities with real-world experience, we’re preparing students not just for immediate jobs, but for future career growth,” she said.
Government Support
This initiative is part of a larger funding effort from Gov. Bill Lee and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, which announced funding for 22 projects through the Governor’s Investment in Vocational Education (GIVE) program. Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor Flora W. Tydings praised the colleges for initiating these partnerships to benefit career and technical education.
Creating Opportunities for All
As Chancellor Tydings aptly stated, “The programs and projects funded by this round of GIVE Grants will create many new opportunities for Tennesseans to learn career-building skills.” She added that this not only benefits individual families but also strengthens Nashville and its communities for generations to come.
With such fantastic support and opportunities on the horizon, Nashville’s students are undoubtedly set for future success in the healthcare sector. Who knows? The next generation of skilled professionals is just around the corner, ready to make a difference in people’s lives!
