CRMC Launches Inaugural Grow Forward Apprenticeship Class

Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC) is proud to announce a special signing day celebrating six CRMC employees selected for the first Grow Forward Program, an earn-as-you-learn Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) apprenticeship developed in collaboration with the Tennessee Hospital Association (THA) and Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Livingston.

“The Grow Forward Program reflects our commitment to supporting our team members while building the next generation of nurses right here at home,” Amy Rich, Chief Clinical Officer at CRMC. “We are thankful all the partnerships to make this program happen, but especially TCAT Livingston as they lead the classroom instruction. These apprentices are taking a bold and rewarding step forward, and we are honored to support them on their journey.”

The nursing profession continues to face critical challenges nationwide, including workforce shortages, high turnover, and rising demands for care across healthcare settings. Apprenticeships offer a promising solution by blending classroom learning with hands-on clinical training, preparing students to transition smoothly and confidently into LPN practice.

According to THA, in 2023, THA’s Department of Workforce Development hosted over a dozen collaborative meetings across the state between academic and healthcare system leaders. In these collaborative groups, THA engaged in feedback from employers with experience in surrounding states using earn-as-you-learn and apprenticeship models in nursing. The department was ultimately asked to work with key stakeholders to develop a framework and obtain permission from the Tennessee Board of Nursing for the apprenticeship model.

THA developed a statewide taskforce in 2024 to guide this work, consisting of hospital, academic, Tennessee Board of Nursing, and apprenticeship experts. In addition to this task force, THA engaged with a variety of governmental stakeholders and entities including the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Tennessee Department of Education, and the Tennessee State Office of Apprenticeship), public and private agencies, and consulted with experts in apprenticeship (H-CAP), nursing education, and the nursing profession. The objective of this task force was to create standards and best practices for earn-as-you-learn models, such as apprenticeships.

“This program is an investment in our people and in the long-term strength of healthcare in our region,” said Cynthia Tompkins, TCAT Director of Nursing. “Apprenticeship programs like this and partnerships like the one with CRMC, ensures that highly skilled, well-supported nurses are ready to meet the needs of our growing community. TCAT is honored to walk alongside the six participants. Great things are ahead for them.”