HCC Apprentices Shine at the Maryland Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony
In a grand celebration of skill, dedication, and resilience, Howard Community College (HCC) recently took center stage at the Maryland Department of Labor Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony during National Apprenticeship Week. Governor Wes Moore and Howard County Executive Calvin Ball graced the occasion, highlighting the significance of apprenticeships in shaping the future workforce. The spotlight, however, shone particularly bright on two HCC students, who are exceptional individuals – Tiffany Gaither and Stacy Brown. They were both honored with the prestigious Outstanding Apprentice 2023 award.
Tiffany Gaither (left): A Beacon of Professionalism and Compassion
Tiffany Gaither emerged as a standout HCC student and Johns Hopkins Hospital registered apprentice, leaving an indelible mark on the healthcare community. Her journey through the apprenticeship program showcased not only her technical prowess as a surgical technologist, but also her unwavering commitment to the well-being of her patients.
Tiffany's career coach described her as a consummate professional, seamlessly blending administrative and clinical duties while consistently surpassing expectations. Beyond her skill set, Tiffany embodies the qualities of a compassionate team player, displaying a positive attitude and promoting the highest ethical standards. Her dedication to lifelong learning and commitment to excellence make her a shining example of what it means to be an outstanding apprentice.
Throughout her apprenticeship, Tiffany demonstrated exceptional attention to patient care, always prioritizing the well-being of those she served. Her commitment, knowledge, and persistence were extraordinary, earning her the respect of nurses, surgeons, and coworkers alike. Tiffany's ability to handle conflicts with patience and tact, coupled with her innate desire to help others in need, exemplifies the spirit of an outstanding apprentice.
Stacy Brown (right): A Superhero in Surgical Tech
Stacy Brown's journey as an HCC student and Surgical Technologist Apprentice at Johns Hopkins Hospital is nothing short of inspiring. Facing personal challenges, including the loss of a family member and navigating her children's transition to college, Stacy demonstrated resilience and determination that set her apart as an exceptional apprentice.
Despite the hardships, Stacy never wavered in her commitment to patient care and the apprenticeship program. Colleagues commend her for always working hard, asking insightful questions, and consistently presenting the best version of herself. Stacy's ability to maintain grace under pressure, especially during a challenging period in her personal life, earned her a place at the top of her class.
Stacy's career coach described her as a superhero in the world of surgical tech, someone who goes above and beyond to fulfill her responsibilities with unparalleled dedication. Her nomination for the Outstanding Apprentice 2023 award is a testament to her exceptional qualities, and her colleagues are privileged to salute her accomplishments.
A Distinguished Ceremony:
The Maryland Department of Labor Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony was graced by the additional presence of Chris MacLarion, Director of Apprenticeship, and Portia Wu, Secretary of Labor for the State of Maryland. The recognition of Tiffany Gaither and Stacy Brown on stage was a moment of pride not only for the HCC, but also for the entire Johns Hopkins community. "It was an incredible and humbling experience to watch Tiffany and Stacy both win this coveted award,” said Jeff Richmond, director of apprenticeship & workforce innovation at HCC. “All our apprentices ‘earn while they learn’ which means they work full-time while attending school part-time. That’s no small feat, and these prestigious awards are a testament of their determination and dedication."
In the spirit of National Apprenticeship Week, these outstanding apprentices serve as beacons of inspiration for aspiring professionals in the field. As the applause resonates from the awards ceremony, it's evident that the commitment, hard work, and resilience of individuals like Tiffany and Stacy are shaping the future of healthcare and apprenticeship programs alike. Their stories are a testament to the transformative power of dedication and passion in the pursuit of excellence.