Addressing the Dental Hygiene Workforce Demand
In an exciting collaboration, Imagem Dental Partners has partnered with Concorde Career Colleges to tackle the increasing demand for dental hygienists. This partnership aims to support students pursuing careers in dental hygiene, helping them gain the necessary skills to succeed in a growing field.
Financial Support Through Scholarships
As part of their commitment, Imagem Dental Partners has pledged significant financial support. They are providing an initial $10,000 in scholarships to students enrolled in Concorde's dental hygiene programs. Notably, this investment is set to double later in the year, reflecting Imagem's dedication to fostering dental talent.
Scholarships Targeting Key Campuses
The scholarships will benefit students at key campuses in California, including those in Garden Grove, San Bernardino, and San Diego. This support not only helps students financially, but also encourages them to pursue careers in dental hygiene—an essential aspect of healthcare.
The Growing Need for Dental Hygienists
The demand for dental hygienists is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Nationwide, the employment of dental hygienists is expected to increase by 9% from 2023 to 2033, with California seeing an even higher growth rate of 15.2% within the same timeframe. This makes the role of dental hygienists crucial in maintaining community health and wellness.
A Commitment to Education and Workforce Development
Dr. Sameer Puri, Chief Clinical Officer at Imagem Dental Partners, emphasized the importance of nurturing new talent within the field. He noted that many graduates from Concorde are well-prepared for real-world challenges, making this partnership a natural fit. Imagem's efforts to provide scholarships showcase their commitment to empowering individuals passionate about making a difference in healthcare.
Building Career Pathways Beyond California
While the focus is currently on California, Imagem has plans to extend their engagement with Concorde's dental hygiene students in other states, including Florida and Texas. The initiative may include visits to campuses and participation in career fairs, aimed at addressing workforce demands more broadly.
Student Reactions and Future Partnerships
Kevin Prehn, president of Concorde Career Colleges, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the mutual benefits that the collaboration brings. The scholarships will provide critical financial assistance to students, while Imagem's involvement enhances employment opportunities for graduates. This mutual success reinforces the recognition of Concorde as a premier educator of dental professionals.
About Imagem Dental Partners
Imagem Dental Partners is a Dental Partnership Organization (DPO) that operates over 100 partner practices across 15 states. Their innovative ownership model encourages clinical autonomy, fostering both excellence and innovation in dentistry. Imagem is committed to improving healthcare outcomes by supporting the next generation of dental professionals.
About Concorde Career Colleges
Concorde Career Colleges, part of Universal Technical Institute (NYSE: UTI), operates 17 campuses across eight states, preparing students for careers in various healthcare fields, including dental hygiene. Their unique education model combines online coursework with hands-on clinical training, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for their future careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the scholarship details offered by Imagem?
Imagem Dental Partners is offering $10,000 in scholarships initially, with plans to double this amount later this year to support students in dental hygiene programs.
Which campuses will benefit from the scholarships?
The scholarships are aimed at students from Concorde's campuses in Garden Grove, San Bernardino, and San Diego.
Why is there a growing demand for dental hygienists?
The employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow rapidly, particularly in California where an increase of 15.2% is expected over the next decade.
What future plans does Imagem have for student engagement?
Imagem plans to engage with dental hygiene students in Florida and Texas through campus visits and career fairs to further address workforce demands.
What role does Concorde Career Colleges play in this partnership?
Concorde Career Colleges provides educational support and prepares students for successful careers in dental hygiene, benefiting from Imagem's scholarship program.
