WSA Launches EMPOWERS U to Bridge Audiology Education and Practice

The initiative functions as a support bridge, providing students with access to seasoned WSA audiologists who offer insights into hearing technology, research methods, and the business side of the profession. Participating universities will gain access to specialized resources, including hearing aids for clinical use and research grants, intended to supplement existing curricula without disrupting established academic standards. By offering paid externships and career-readiness programming, WSA aims to ensure that students can apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings before graduation.

Sheena Burks, Chief Clinical Officer at WSA, emphasizes that the program is intended to complement, rather than replace, the foundational work performed by university faculty. The name itself highlights a multi-faceted approach, encompassing scholarship opportunities, professional outreach, and workforce training. For students approaching the workforce, the program facilitates networking and job matching based on individual specialties and geographical preferences. Educational leaders and students can access further details and application portals through the dedicated project website, WSAEmpowersU.com.