Oct. 21, 2020, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Grand Rapids Community College Workforce Training leaders are celebrating National Medical Assistants Day by commemorating the 10th anniversary of its groundbreaking program.
GRCC’s program in 2016 became the first Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs-accredited Medical Assistant program in the nation to be taught in a Registered Apprenticeship format.
GRCC has had nearly 450 students successfully complete the program, including 71 registered apprentices with 18 more on track to graduate in January 2021. GRCC continues to look to connect with area employers and provide students with additional opportunities in the years ahead.
"This program changed me both professionally and personally,” program manager Linda Witte said. “It has been a privilege to work with the talented staff and inspiring students for the past 10 years. This program has had a positive impact on so many people and families. I can't think of a better way to serve our healthcare community."
The GRCC program started as a pilot 10 years ago. The college made adjustments over the years to make the program stronger, with input from students and employers.
Instructors place a strong emphasis on a core of knowledge that is foundational to student success and the safety of those in their care. The program prepares students to perform administrative and clinical tasks to keep health practitioner offices and clinics running smoothly.
The course combines classroom lecture, group activity, simulation learning, and competency-based experiences. Students will be prepared to take the Registered Medical Assistant national certification exam through American Medical Technologists.
GRCC, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship, West Michigan Works!, Mercy Health, Cherry Health, Spectrum Health, Montcalm Community College and Muskegon Community College worked together to launch the registered apprenticeship program in 2016.
Then-U.S. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta and then-Gov. Rick Snyder toured the Medical Assistant program and other healthcare career opportunities on campus in 2017.
Elizabeth Jose Pena was one of the students who benefitted from the program.
“GRCC’s Medical Assistant Apprenticeship program caught my attention because I was able to work, support my family and continue my education,” she said. “I felt as though the faculty understood that there would be barriers, but they were always willing to help.”
Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college -- and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.