New workforce development program allows trainees to earn a competitive salary while earning an Associate Degree at Chattanooga State
CHATTANOOGA (Oct. 1, 2025) – BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee (BlueCross) 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. BlueHorizon will improve BlueCross’ ability to attract and retain top talent in those roles.
“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,” Vaughn said. “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.”
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,” said 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.
For more information about BlueHorizon, visit BlueHorizonTN.com.
About BlueCross®
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is a taxpaying, not-for-profit health plan serving more than 3.3 million members in Tennessee and around the country. The Chattanooga-based company was founded in 1945 and has brought peace of mind to its members and local communities for 80 years. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Inc. is an independent licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association. For more information, visit the company’s news center at bcbstnews.com or visit the company’s website at bcbst.com.