By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is partnering with Ignite Nebraska, a nonprofit workforce development organization to launch a pilot program aimed at strengthening Nebraska’s public-sector workforce and building a collaborative talent pipeline. The initiative will identify, prepare, and support job-ready candidates for critical roles within DHHS.
Ignite Nebraska is dedicated to reducing poverty through quality career pathways. This mission aligns closely with the workforce development priorities of Governor Jim Pillen which focus on creating clear pathways to stable, thriving careers for Nebraskans.
The pilot program involves no exchange of funds. Instead, Ignite Nebraska will provide in-kind expertise and resources. Initially, DHHS plans to hire program graduates into various opportunities within the department contingent upon completion of DHHS training and background checks.
Ignite Nebraska’s program is built on four foundational pillars designed to ensure participant success:
-Education: A fully funded, hands-on curriculum that equips participants with in-demand skills.
-On-the-Job Training: Paid, practical experience that reinforces classroom learning and prepares participants for real-world roles.
-Navigation: Dedicated navigators provide personalized guidance and connect participants to essential resources throughout the program.
-Partnerships: Collaboration with corporate, educational and government partners — including DHHS — to expand access to meaningful career opportunities.
Helping Nebraskans find a stable job and eventually off government benefits has shown to increase a person’s financial growth, improves their personal independence and confidence and provides better benefits than what the government provides.
Most importantly, children in working households benefit from more stable routines, improved educational outcomes and stronger examples of workforce participation. Higher employment rates are also linked to lower crime rates, increased civic engagement and a stronger economy.
Helping Nebraskans secure stable employment not only supports their transition off public assistance, but also promotes financial growth, personal independence and long-term stability. Research consistently shows that employment strengthens families and communities.
“We are excited about this partnership with Ignite Nebraska, which will provide DHHS with qualified team members ready to begin meaningful careers serving Nebraskans most in need,” said Steve Corsi, CEO of DHHS. “This collaboration is a win-win, strengthening our workforce while helping individuals achieve greater independence, stable income and reduced reliance on public assistance.”
DHHS is partnering with Ignite Nebraska based on its strong track record of success. Notably, 100 percent of its apprentices remain employed one year after program completion. Ignite Nebraska also partners with some of Nebraska’s biggest employers including BlueCross Blue Shield of Nebraska, Union Pacific, Boys Town, Werner Enterprises and Methodist Health Systems.
Following evaluation of the pilot, DHHS and Ignite Nebraska plan to expand the program.
“Ignite Nebraska is thrilled to partner with DHHS on this pilot initiative,” said Joni Wheeler, Founder of Ignite Nebraska. “Together, we are helping Nebraskans move from generational poverty toward stable, fulfilling careers.”