LEXINGTON, Ky. — Bluegrass Community & Technical College held its annual Going Pro Signing Day on Wednesday, recognizing students from high-demand healthcare and emergency service programs who are transitioning directly into professional careers.

The event, held at the Leestown Campus, brought together students and employers to formally mark the commitment between graduates and regional healthcare organizations. Students representing Respiratory Care, Paramedic, Nursing, Surgical Technology, and Dental Hygiene programs signed with employer partners, signifying their readiness to enter the workforce.

Participating employers included Frankfort Regional Medical Center, Baptist Health Lexington, CHI St. Joseph Hospital, University of Kentucky HealthCare, Anderson County EMS, Georgetown County EMS, Eastern State Hospital, University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital, University of Kentucky Good Samaritan Hospital, and Mortenson Dental Partners.

"This is an exciting milestone for our students and faculty alike," said Dr. Patricio I. Meneses, Dean of Nursing and Allied Health. "Our students have demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience, and it is incredibly rewarding to see them launch meaningful careers in healthcare."

The event was held during Community College Month, which highlights the role that community colleges play in workforce development. BCTC, one of 16 colleges in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, serves more than 18,000 students annually and operates seven campuses across Central Kentucky.

According to recent rankings, BCTC was recognized by EduMed.org for overall value in nursing and allied health education, reflecting its commitment to affordable, high-quality healthcare training that leads to employment.