Governor Kim Reynolds awarded $13.5 million in funding for apprenticeship programs to help expand health careers across Iowa last week. Iowa’s Health Careers Registered Apprenticeship (RA) Program, first introduced last year, has grown this year to support programs in even more high-demand occupations in health care. The $13.5 million in new funding will award 21 RA programs, which are estimated to support a total of 1,463 apprentices. Awardees include hospitals, community colleges, school districts, and assisted living facilities, reflecting the strong need for support in a diverse number of health occupations. Programs will support the development of Nursing, Emergency Medical Responders, Behavioral Health & Substance Abuse Specialists, and other critical areas. Awardees are required to provide an industry-recognized credential that can also be stackable and used by apprentices to advance a career in health care.