Kadlec Regional Medical Center and Gesa Credit Union have joined forces to support high school students interested in healthcare careers. They’re launching the Kadlec Health Care Academy at Tri-Tech Skills Center, giving students a chance to gain work experience and earn money simultaneously.
This new program is set to welcome around 36 students in its first group. Thanks to a generous $100,000 sponsorship from Gesa, these students will be compensated for their training, which allows them to focus on their learning without the stress of juggling another job.
Brandon Allison, Gesa’s vice president of community impact, expressed excitement about the initiative. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among local organizations to create opportunities for students. “When we work together, we can connect students to meaningful careers while meeting real community needs,” he said.
The academy takes inspiration from a similar program in Spokane by Providence, which oversees Kadlec. Both programs aim to reach students from underserved communities, helping them access careers in healthcare. While the focus is on healthcare jobs, the academy also accommodates students interested in related fields like IT and facility management.
New data from a recent survey by the National Health Career Association shows that healthcare careers are among the fastest-growing fields in the U.S. In fact, the employment in healthcare is projected to grow by 15% by 2029, much faster than average for all occupations. This trend highlights the need for programs like the Kadlec Health Care Academy, which prepares students for a promising future.
Programs like this not only equip students with practical skills but also address workforce shortages in healthcare. As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise, initiatives like the Kadlec Health Care Academy serve as a crucial stepping stone for the next generation.
By providing hands-on training and financial support, organizations can make a real impact, opening doors for students and enriching the community at large.
For further insights into healthcare workforce trends, you can explore this report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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March 2026
