Our Mission
At The Apprentice Academy, we are changing the nature of higher education and making the path to careers more accessible. Our mission is to provide an affordable and efficient, hands-on apprenticeship model that answers the needs of students, healthcare practitioners and the general public.
We bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world practice through personalized mentorship and direct connections to local healthcare partners. You don't just learn by doing, shadowing and practice; you become a professional.
Our commitment to affordability ensures that your future in a respected dental career is not limited by cost or false constraints of over-structured higher education programs. We provide the tools, the training, and the support you need to build a rewarding career.
The Apprentice Academy Team
Dr. Thomas Wicke
Founder and President
Dr. Thomas Wicke has been president of three colleges in California and Colorado. His last college was recognized by its national accreditor as well as by the governor of Colorado for Excellence in Community Service. His campus was named "campus of the year" in 2022 and 2025.
Dr. Wicke received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Irvine where he was also a faculty research scientist. He consulted with the Dept. of Homeland Security as a grad student and is a published academic as well as an author of multiple books. He owned his own marketing company and, curiously, is the inventor and co-developer of the world's first USGA tournament playable eco-friendly golf ball.
Dr. Wicke was honored to be named a 2025 Colorado Titan of Business. He is a published academic, author and leadership trainer. He has over 15 years experience in healthcare education and founded The Apprentice Academy to extend opportunities to students who don't have access to the cost and length of traditional college programs.
Samara Miles
TAA Lead Mentor
Samara Miles is a dedicated Dental Assistant Instructor and healthcare
education professional with over 10 years of experience in the dental field, including clinical dental assisting, office management, student advising, and healthcare education support services. She brings a strong foundation
of real-world clinical knowledge combined with a passion for student development and academic success.
She is committed to creating engaging learning environments that prepare students for success in both the classroom and clinical setting.
Samara holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Service Management and has extensive experience mentoring students through academic and career pathways. Her teaching approach emphasizes hands-on learning,
confidence building, professionali-sm, and compassionate patient-centered care. She is passionate about helping future dental professionals develop the technical skills, critical thinking abilities, and professionalism needed to thrive in the healthcare industry.
Cynthia Meekins
Industry Consultant & Advisor
Cynthia Meekins, R.D.A., E.D.D.A has over 40 years in the dental profession and has taught hundreds of students in various capacities, currently as founder and principle of EDDA Plus.
I have a heart for teaching and helping others. I'm committed to making a difference in all that you do in your career and life. I have over 40 years of experience in the dental field as a successful dental assistant, office manager, EDDA and staff trainer. My many strengths include, but are not limited to; EDDA skills training as well to include necessary team and practice building skills. I am known throughout Denver by not only Dentists, but over 1,800 dental assistants.
Comfort Dental
Apprentice Dentistry Partner
Comfort Dental is a leading dental provider in Colorado and across the country. Founded in 1977, Comfort Dental is one of the largest dental franchises in the United States. The company operates more than 150 independently owned offices across 10 states and employs between 1,001 and 5,000 people. With over 60 locations in Colorado, Comfort Dental is a perfect partner and is pleased to join forces with The Apprentice Academy to solve the dental shortage in Colorado. Comfort Dental likely has an office to provide apprentice opportunities across the Denver metro area.