BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is launching BlueHorizon, a full-time, paid apprenticeship program offering an accelerated path to an associate degree in Health Sciences from Chattanooga State Community College, and a full-time paid customer service role at BlueCross.
Roy Vaughn, SVP and chief human resources officer for BlueCross, noted that as rising costs continue to impact all parts of the health care industry, customer service talent remains an evergreen need for the company.
“Customer service is key to how we deliver value for our members and business customers, and we hire more than 350 people a year for these roles throughout our organization...Some of our best employees have started their BlueCross journeys in these positions, and this education-and-employment opportunity gives motivated individuals a chance to launch a career with a mission-driven company.”
- Roy Vaughn, SVP and chief human resources officer for BlueCross
Recruitment for the program is currently underway. Like BlueSky Tennessee Institute, BlueHorizon will focus on recruiting from Hamilton County. The initiative also aims to engage adult learners seeking a community college education with job security. The first cohort will begin their customer service roles in June 2026, and start classes in fall of 2026.
'“BlueHorizon is an exciting example of what’s possible when employers and education providers collaborate in truly innovative ways. With BlueCross as a committed partner, we’re equipping the next generation of professionals with both a degree and on-the-job work experience to thrive in a rapidly changing workforce.”
-Dr. Patrick O’Hagan, AVP of economic & workforce development for Chattanooga State
"Chattanooga State is proud to help students earn a degree while gaining full-time, family-sustaining employment with a trusted local employer, creating a model that benefits learners, businesses and the broader community.”
The apprenticeship program will be managed by Chattanooga State, with curriculum shaped in part by BlueCross needs. Participants’ studies are built into the program’s earn-and-learn framework, and apprentices will receive cohort-style intensive support as they move toward graduation and continue their career at BlueCross.
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