New Program Aims To Train New Wave Of Healthcare Workers

Trinity Health of New England

HARTFORD, CT — A local healthcare provider and the state's online community college are teaming up for a program that will train underserved populations for careers in the medical field.

Trinity Health Of New England is partnering with Charter Oak State College and Capital Workforce Partners on the national "Good Jobs Challenge Grant Employment Training Program."

The federal program is designed to provide entry-level career pathways to under and unemployed members of the community.

Students in the 12-week online program will be trained as patient registrars.

They will earn a digital badge and begin a defined pathway toward further degrees, Trinity said in a statement.

“We are proud to partner with Charter Oak State College and Capital Workforce Partners on the Good Jobs Grant program,” said Montez Carter, president and chief executive officer, Trinity Health Of New England.

“Our respective missions and values are fully aligned, as each organization is committed to providing the underserved populations in our communities with equal opportunities. Every role in health care plays an important part in the patient journey.”

The program will consist of two groi[s of 25 participants and will provide them with the training to begin their career path.

The courses are designed to feed into existing degree programs at Charter Oak, including bachelor of science degrees in health information management (HIM) or health care administration.

If a student is not yet ready to pursue a bachelor’s degree, Charter Oak offers a credit-bearing certificate in HIM fundamentals.

Charter Oak State College President Ed Klonoski said “yhis important grant supports our mission to advance Connecticut’s workforce."

Students are enrolled in the program free of charge and will be provided a laptop to complete their coursework.

The learning schedule allows flexibility for students in the program, especially for those unable to leave current jobs to attend classes in person.

The program, according to Capital Workforce Partners, benefits employers and employees alike, as well as the economy.

Said Alex Johnson, president and chief executive officer of Capital Workforce Partners: “The Good Jobs Challenge prioritizes employer leadership and hiring commitments, which we know are critical to expanding career opportunities for more Americans to reach their full potential and secure good jobs, leading to a robust regional and national economy.”

Once students have completed the course, they will be eligible for open patient access positions at Trinity Health Of New England hospitals, among them Saint Francis Hospital in Hartford.

Those interested can call program officials at 860-359-5104. A career advisor will answer the call and provide additional information and next steps.