WSA’s new EMPOWERS U program connects Doctor of Audiology students with mentorship, paid externships, scholarships, and career-placement support through structured university partnerships.
WSA, hearing healthcare parent company of Widex and Signia, has launched EMPOWERS U, a partnership program aimed at supporting Doctor of Audiology (AuD) students from academic preparation through the early stages of their professional careers.
The program is structured around eight core elements reflected in its name: Educational Programs, Mentorship, Partnership, Outreach, Workforce Training, Engagement, Relationship-Building, and Scholarships. Together, these components are designed to connect AuD students with industry exposure, professional development, and practical experience that complement their university training.
A Dedicated Framework for AuD University Programs
Participating AuD programs will receive a dedicated WSA partner who works directly with university leadership to identify and develop student-facing opportunities. WSA audiologists will contribute to on-site learning covering hearing technology, research, career preparation, and the business of audiology. Participating universities will also gain access to WSA hearing aids for use in their clinics, along with grants and resources to support student research initiatives.
“The strength of the audiology profession begins with the exceptional education provided by university programs,” says Sheena Burks, chief clinical officer, WSA, in a release. “EMPOWERS U is designed to complement that work by helping students connect what they learn at their universities with additional industry exposure, mentorship, and real-world professional experience. Together, universities and WSA can give aspiring audiologists a strong, end-to-end foundation for successful and fulfilling careers.”
Support Spanning Education Through Career Entry
Beyond the university partnership structure, EMPOWERS U is designed to stay with students as they progress. Students can build relationships with WSA audiologists whose professional backgrounds align with their interests, gaining guidance on career pathways within the field. Paid externships allow students to apply clinical skills before graduation, and scholarships are intended to broaden access to those opportunities.
As students approach graduation, a professional matching component aims to connect them with positions aligned with their preferred practice setting, specialty, or geographic location. An alumni community, ongoing events, and communications are intended to sustain those professional connections over time.
“EMPOWERS U connects the experiences that shape an aspiring audiologist’s development into one continuous journey,” says Burks, in a release. “By working alongside universities and remaining engaged with students throughout their education and early careers, WSA is helping build a stronger, more connected audiology community. The lasting measure of the program will be the professionals it supports, the careers it helps launch, and the difference those audiologists make in people’s lives.”
The launch follows a period of active expansion for WSA in the US, including its recognition as a Top Employer for the third consecutive year and a recent partnership with the Academy of Doctors of Audiology to launch the Listen Up public awareness initiative nationwide.
AuD program leaders and enrolled students can visit WSAEmpowersU.com to learn more, inquire about partnership opportunities, or submit a student application.
