Faulkner University marked a historic milestone by hosting its first Nurse Apprentice Signing Day on Dec. 18 in the College of Health Sciences, celebrating three nursing students selected for Alabama’s Student Nurse Apprentice pathway.
Representatives from Baptist Health and Vaughan Regional Medical Center joined university leaders to officially sign the students, who will receive paid, on-the-job clinical training while completing their nursing education.
The students signed were Kolbi Bates and Eavie Polk with Baptist Health and Bethani Jackson with Vaughan Regional Medical Center. Jackson’s signing is especially historic, as she is the first nursing apprentice ever selected by Vaughan Regional.
The apprenticeship is a paid opportunity that allows students to earn income while gaining hands-on experience. Participants complete their clinical rotations at the facilities where they are employed, giving them real-world patient care experience while developing professional skills and confidence.
Alabama was the first state in the nation to establish the nursing apprenticeship model, which has since been adopted by other states. The program operates in conjunction with the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship and the Alabama Board of Nursing. Students must apply for and receive an apprenticeship permit through the Board of Nursing before participating.
Faulkner’s three apprentices represent 27 percent of the current nursing cohort, underscoring the strength of the university’s nursing program and its partnerships with regional health care providers.
“Our nursing students are in a unique position,” said Faulkner School of Nursing Director Shellye A. Vardaman, PhD, RN, MEDSURG-BC, NEA-BC, CNE. “They are learning in real patient care environments while developing the skills and confidence needed to become competent professionals.”
The signing day highlighted Faulkner University’s commitment to innovative, workforce-driven education and preparing students to meet critical health care needs across Alabama.
