In the ever-evolving workforce landscape, high school students increasingly seek ways to gain a competitive edge before they even receive their diplomas. While traditional part-time jobs like retail or food service remain popular, an exciting trend is emerging: high school students earn certifications that allow them to step directly into healthcare roles. These certifications not only boost their resumes but also open doors to careers that offer stability, growth, and a sense of purpose.
As a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Health Science Instructor and Medical Courses Program Coordinator at Destinations Career Academy of Colorado (CODCA), I’ve witnessed firsthand how early exposure to healthcare professions can shape students’ future. Through CODCA’s innovative Mobile Lab, we bring the necessary clinical and lab experiences to students across Colorado, including those in remote areas. This mobile resource ensures that every student can access the hands-on training needed to earn valuable certifications regardless of geographic location.
These certifications/qualifications, including those for Pharmacy Technicians, Qualified Medication Administration Personnel, Certified Nursing Assistants, Certified Medical Scribe Professionals, Certified EKG Technicians, Certified Clinical Medical Assistants, and Certified Phlebotomy Technicians, offer students a solid foundation in healthcare. But what exactly can a high school student do with these certifications? Let’s explore some practical examples, drawing on students’ experiences in our program.
The Challenge: Limited Access to Hands-On Training
The healthcare industry is known for its rigorous training requirements, particularly in direct patient care roles. Meeting these requirements can be challenging for high school students, especially if they live in rural areas with limited access to medical facilities for practical experience.
The Solution: CODCA’s Mobile Lab
Since its launch in 2021, CODCA’s Mobile Lab has been a game-changer. This fully equipped traveling medical lab allows students to gain hands-on experience without having to leave their communities. Whether it’s practicing phlebotomy, administering medication, or performing EKGs, students get the clinical exposure they need to meet certification requirements. The lab also provides opportunities for peer learning and interaction with healthcare professionals, further enriching the educational experience.
The Results: Students Ready to Enter the Workforce
The impact of this initiative is significant. Students who participate in our program often graduate high school with one or more certifications, making them immediately employable in healthcare settings. For instance:
- Pharmacy Technicians: With a certification, students can work in pharmacies, helping pharmacists prepare medications, manage inventory, and assist customers. This role offers a blend of customer service and technical skills, providing a strong introduction to the healthcare industry.
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): CNAs are essential members of the healthcare team, providing direct patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings. This certification offers students job opportunities and a clear pathway to more advanced nursing roles.
- Certified Medical Scribe Professionals: Scribes assist physicians by documenting patient encounters in real-time, ensuring accurate medical records. This role is ideal for students interested in the administrative side of healthcare and provides valuable exposure to clinical settings.
- Certified EKG Technicians: EKG technicians are critical in determining abnormal heart rhythms by conducting electrocardiograms. High school students with this certification can work in hospitals and clinics, gaining experience that can lead to more specialized roles in cardiology.
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistants (CCMA): CCMAs perform various clinical and administrative tasks, making them versatile employees in healthcare settings. This certification allows students to work in outpatient facilities, supporting physicians with patient care, lab tests, and office management.
- Certified Phlebotomy Technicians: Phlebotomy involves drawing blood for tests, transfusions, and donations. Students certified in phlebotomy can find work in hospitals, blood donation centers, and diagnostic labs, gaining practical skills that are in high demand.
The Takeaways: A Model for Success
The success of CODCA’s Mobile Lab illustrates the power of innovative solutions in education. By bringing hands-on training directly to students, we can overcome geographic and logistical barriers, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed. The healthcare certifications offered through our program are more than just pieces of paper—they are keys to the future. For high school students, these certifications represent a head start in a growing industry, providing immediate employment opportunities and a foundation for further education and career advancement.
Tips for Students and Educators:
1. Start Early: High school is the perfect time to explore career interests. Students should take advantage of any available CTE programs to gain certifications that align with their career goals.
2. Seek Out Resources: Programs like CODCA’s Mobile Lab are invaluable for students in rural or underserved areas. Educators and parents should advocate for similar community resources to ensure equitable access to career training.
3. Think Long-Term: While these certifications/qualifications can lead to immediate job opportunities, they also serve as stepping stones to further education and specialized roles within healthcare. Students should consider how their certification fits into their long-term career plans.
4. Network and Gain Experience: Even as high school students, networking with professionals and gaining experience through internships or part-time work can provide insights and connections that will be valuable throughout their careers.
The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the economy, with a constant demand for skilled workers. By earning certifications in high school, students not only position themselves for immediate employment but also lay the groundwork for lifelong careers in healthcare. With the right resources and support, students can achieve remarkable things—just as those in our CODCA program have demonstrated. As we continue to innovate and expand access to career training, we empower the next generation to step confidently into the future.
