Gwendolyn
With a strong interest in healthcare, Gwendolyn knew a traditional classroom setting was not the best fit for her learning style. She thrived in a hands-on environment and was seeking an opportunity that combined education with real-world experience.
In June 2024, Gwendolyn applied to Shawnee Health’s Dental Assistant Apprenticeship Program. Shawnee Health connected her to Man-Tra-Con Corporation for additional assistance. Through Apprenticeship Program funding, Man-Tra-Con was able to help support her journey by purchasing scrubs and establishing an On-the-Job Training contract that supported both the apprentice and Shawnee Health. This collaboration helped Gwendolyn overcome barriers and earn wages while she gained skills for a position in the dental field.
Gwendolyn began the program with no prior healthcare experience and faced the challenge of finding time to complete coursework while meeting her work requirements. Despite these obstacles, she remained committed to her goal and gained the education, technical skills, and hands-on experience needed to launch her career as a Dental Assistant.
In June 2026, Gwendolyn completed the program and is currently working as a Dental Assistant for Shawnee Health in Carbondale, Illinois. She plans to continue building her skills as a Dental Assistant over the next two years while exploring specialty areas within the profession. Her success demonstrates how registered apprenticeship programs create meaningful career pathways by combining classroom instruction, paid on-the-job learning, and dedicated support from employers and workforce partners.
Reflecting on her experience, Gwendolyn encourages future participants to stay focused and remember the long-term opportunities an apprenticeship can provide. “Stay strong. Stay present in the moment—but also think about where this can lead. Be willing to make sacrifices and don’t wish your time away,” Gwendolyn advises.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was its structured yet flexible approach to learning. While deadlines and training requirements kept me on track, they helped me build the skill of patience and allowed me to learn at my own pace while balancing work responsibilities,” Gwendolyn adds.
“If it wasn’t for the Apprenticeship Program and Man-Tra-Con, I wouldn’t be here,” Gwendolyn says.