Jefferson’s Community Health Worker Academy Earns State Approval as Registered Apprenticeship Program

Partnership with JEVS Human Services Seeks to Strengthen Career Sustainability and Diverse Workforce Opportunities

June 6, 2026

Jefferson's Community Health Worker Academy (CHWA) has been approved by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a Registered Apprenticeship Program, marking a significant milestone in Jefferson's workforce development efforts and commitment to improving lives across the region.

Jefferson's CHWA is a 13-month paid training program and places graduates into full-time roles with benefits, advancing culturally responsive care and workforce diversity. The Academy recruits directly from the communities it serves.

"Jefferson's CHW Program helps remove barriers to education and workforce development," said Keith Leaphart, DO, Executive Vice President, Humana Chief Health Equity and Community Impact Officer. "For many, this is not just a job; it's a launching point for long-term growth and economic stability rooted in a mission to improve lives."

Jefferson's application to the state's Registered Apprenticeship Program was sponsored by JEVS Human Services.

"This collaboration between JEVS and Jefferson is helping to bridge the gap between health/social services and the community," shared Cynthia Figueroa, President and CEO, JEVS. "JEVS is proud to be the registered apprenticeship sponsor for the Community Health Worker Apprenticeship, providing services and support that lead to careers for apprentices, and a skilled workforce for employers."

Since its inception in 2023, Jefferson's Community Health Worker Program has expanded from fewer than a dozen CHWs to nearly 40 individuals embedded across hospital and community settings, where they provide home visits, post-discharge follow-up, chronic disease coaching and connections to critical social services. The program has reduced emergency department use and readmissions, significantly improved patients' blood pressure control and increased primary care engagement.

According to the PA Department of Labor and Industry, registered apprenticeships are "innovative work-based training programs that allow employers to develop and prepare their future workforce, while providing individuals with a learn-while-you-earn approach to career development."

Registered apprenticeships must meet five key criteria:

1. Paid job

2. On-the-job training

3. Classroom learning

4. Mentorship

5. Credentials - participants receive a recognized credential within their industry

"Recognition as a Registered Apprenticeship Program illustrates the Community Health Worker Academy's rigorous education and training that serves as a sustainable pipeline to employment," Leaphart said.

Jefferson will be recognized by JEVS at its Breakfast of Apprentice Champions on June 11, which celebrates new partners with programs driving real impact through the JEVS apprenticeship model.

"Partnerships like this create meaningful pathways to sustainable careers while helping employers build a strong and diverse workforce," said Waleska Maldonado, Chief Program Officer, JEVS. "The Community Health Worker Apprenticeship is a perfect example of this. JEVS is proud to work alongside Jefferson to expand access to high-quality apprenticeship opportunities that support both participants and the healthcare industry."

Jefferson's apprenticeship program launched in May 2026 with the start of the Community Health Worker Academy's new cohort.

For more information about Jefferson's Community Health Worker Academy, visit:

https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/CHWA

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