Oakton, Northwestern Medicine Launch Medical Assistant Apprenticeship

EVANSTON, IL — A new collaboration between Oakton College and Northwestern Medicine offers an opportunity for students to earn money as a clinical assistant while working toward certification as a medical assistant.

Once the students complete the Medical Assistant Apprenticeship Program, they can continue working for Northwestern as a certified medical assistant.

And next year, Evanston Township High School graduates interested in a healthcare career after earning a basic nurse assistant training certificate through a dual credit program with Oakton will also join the apprenticeship program.

“Our need for talented, qualified healthcare professionals has increased tremendously, so we are thrilled to partner with Oakton College to help bridge the gap for students who are considering a profession in healthcare,” said Dr. Micah Eimer, associate chief medical officer at Northwestern Medicine.

“We created a unique program where a significant portion of the curriculum includes conducting clinical assistant work on-site at Northwestern Medicine in Evanston," Eimer said in a statement. "This offers students hands-on experience while they study, and an opportunity to join the staff full-time at Northwestern Medicine upon program completion.”

Students in the program earn $20 while working for Northwestern Medicine. In addition to the hourly wage, participants in the apprenticeship are set to receive living wage and educational stipends.

“I think this is a opportunity of a lifetime, especially for me. I took a break to raise my children," said Kimberly Hill, of Northbrook, a new medical assistant apprentice. "Now that my children are grown, I found this opportunity and walked through the door to take it. It is never too late to go back to school."

At a recent kick-off event in Evanston, Oakton and Northwestern Medicine staff provided an overview of the program and a chance for prospective students to ask questions.

“I'm very excited about this program and ready to work and start my studies," said Mariah Gladden of Evanston, a new medical assistant apprentice. "This program is a perfect fit for me because of the work and clinic schedule. I want to become a registered nurse eventually.