"Richland Two Students Sign as New Midlands Youth Apprentices"

On August 28, Carolina Panorama reported on Midlands Technical College Dual Enrollment students. A group of talented learners from Richland School District Two recently joined the Midlands Youth Apprenticeship (MYA) Program, giving them the opportunity to gain paid, real-world experience while earning college credit. The students will be working at Prisma Health as Nursing Support Assistants, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning.

Learning Through Real-World Experience

An excerpt from the Carolina Panorama article highlights the excitement of the students: 

"I am incredibly excited to be in this program,” said Eva Eargle, a junior at Blythewood High School. “I have already learned a great deal of information and seen many interesting things. I would love to be a nurse. I'm not sure what type yet. But I'm so grateful for everything."

The MYA program exemplifies the power of partnerships between schools, local employers, and higher education institutions. By giving students early exposure to in-demand careers in healthcare, the program not only reduces the cost of higher education but also strengthens the workforce pipeline in Columbia, South Carolina, and surrounding areas.

For more insight into the business benefits of apprenticeship programs, read Leveraging Apprenticeship Programs to Solve Workforce Pipeline Challenges.

Midlands Youth Apprenticeship Program Overview

The Midlands Youth Apprenticeship Program connects high school juniors and seniors with local employers, allowing students to gain career skills, professional credentials, and a clearer pathway into further education or employment. Students split their time between high school, college courses, and on-the-job training at participating businesses.

MTC offers 10 different pathways in four Schools of Study, providing apprenticeships in fields including healthcare, trade programs, IT, and advanced manufacturing. Learn more about the Midlands Youth Apprenticeship Program.

Benefits of Dual Enrollment and Apprenticeships

High school students enrolled in the Dual Enrollment (DE@MTC) program can take college courses tuition-free while earning high school credits. This program allows students to:

Accelerate academic achievement with a head start on college courses

Save thousands of dollars in tuition costs

Gain practical, career-focused experience in healthcare, IT, and other high-demand industries

Explore different trade programs near you that align with your career interests

Learn more about Dual Enrollment at MTC.

Preparing for a Career in Healthcare

Students like Eva Eargle are already gaining hands-on skills in nursing support, which can lead to future roles such as:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Patient Care Technician
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Registered Nurse (RN)

By participating in the MYA program, students not only earn valuable experience but also gain insight into the healthcare profession early, positioning themselves for a smoother transition to post-secondary education or immediate workforce entry.

Why Choose Midlands Technical College?

Midlands Technical College is a forward-thinking trade school in Columbia, South Carolina, offering students the opportunity to explore a wide range of career-focused trade programs near you. MTC combines hands-on learning, small class sizes, and partnerships with local employers to ensure students are prepared for real-world success.

Whether you’re interested in healthcare, IT, engineering, or advanced manufacturing, MTC provides a variety of programs to help students achieve their goals. Explore all programs at MTC.
and find the path that fits your career aspirations.

Get Started Today

Are you a student ready to get a head start on your career? Or a parent looking for career-focused opportunities for your child? Learn more about how to get involved with Midlands Youth Apprenticeship by visiting midlandstech.edu/mya.

You can also explore campus visits — virtual or in-person — to meet faculty, staff, and current students. Midlands Technical College’s campuses in Columbia, South Carolina, offer flexible schedules, hands-on learning, and expert guidance to help students succeed in trade programs near you.

Start your journey today and take advantage of the unique opportunities that MYA and MTC offer to prepare for a rewarding career.