Ozarks Tech is partnering with Mercy Springfield for Win from Within, a program designed for those interested in health care to have one year of pre-requisite classes and two years of eligible education paid upfront.
The goal of the Mercy program is to create a pipeline for new health care workers and reduce vacancy rates by lessening the financial challenges of school. At Ozarks Tech, it will provide qualifying students with financial assistance for tuition, books, registration and lab fees – up to $10,000 per year for three years. As part of the program, participants are required to work 16 hours per pay period at a Mercy facility and commit to employment with Mercy in the Springfield community post-graduation.
According to the latest Missouri Hospital Association workforce report, health care is one of the region’s top employment opportunities, but the data also indicates a 15.6% vacancy rate for registered nurses. Ozarks Tech is working to bridge the supply-demand gap for caregivers through partnerships like the Win from Within program.
“Ozarks Tech is committed to removing obstacles to education, so this collaboration and program is an excellent fit because it offers an opportunity for those considering the health care profession to get their education and start their career debt-free,” said Dr. Aaron Light, dean of health sciences at Ozarks Tech. “Making this education more accessible will ultimately help grow and stabilize this important segment of our workforce.”
The following programs at Ozarks Tech qualify for Win from Within:
- Surgical Technology
- Respiratory Therapy
- Radiology
- Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
The application deadline for the Mercy Win from Within program is October 4, 2024. To learn more about eligibility requirements and the application process, contact Leslie Smith at 314-207-3469 or leslie.smith2@mercy.net.
For more information about health care education opportunities at Ozarks Tech, visit explore@otc.edu or contact Student Affairs at 417-447-6900.
