EVANSVILLE, IN – Deaconess Health Systems is currently recruiting new students for the new Deaconess Nurse
Apprenticeship program. This program with Deaconess Health System is a partnership between SWIN Workforce and Ivy
Tech that aims to provide on-the-job and classroom training to registered student nurse apprentices.
The Deaconess Nurse Apprenticeship allows students to earn a wage while learning, start a nursing career with little to no
debt, and earn an apprenticeship certificate from the US Department of Labor.
The development of this program began with a conversation between SWIN Workforce and Ami Lloyd, Student Nurse
Apprenticeship Coordinator with Deaconess. Nationwide, health systems are experiencing a nursing shortage. Lloyd said she is excited for this program to develop a pipeline of nurses at Deaconess.
“Being in an apprenticeship drastically cuts down on the amount of time someone would need to go through orientation. The comfort level and confidence are greatly improved by the time the apprentice graduates,” Lloyd says.
“I think we’re going to see a population of nurses that stay where they train,” Lloyd said. “Ultimately this helps to improve the workforce throughout the region.”
Valerie Schmidt is the Business Services Manager with SWIN Workforce and helped develop the Deaconess Nursing
Apprenticeship Program.“
Deaconess’ continued focus on workforce development ensures that its teams remain well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of patients and the broader healthcare industry. Through innovative programs and forward-thinking strategies, Deaconess remains a trusted partner in building a stronger, more resilient healthcare workforce,” Schmidt said.
“We want to make sure these nurses are ready when they graduate,” Lloyd said.
The Deaconess Nursing Apprenticeship program is available to five Ivy Tech students who begin nursing school in the fall of 2025. Schedules for the participating students include coursework at Ivy Tech along with on the job training at a Deaconess site for up to 20 hours a week.
The apprenticeship position will conclude upon completion of all coursework, clinical hours, graduation with an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree and acceptance of a graduate nurse role.
