LAS VEGAS — A new training center is making waves by equipping people with essential skills for the healthcare industry. As Las Vegas faces significant staffing shortages in healthcare, the Westside Educational and Training Center has stepped up to offer free education and training in various fields, including healthcare, advanced manufacturing, IT, and construction.
Aaryana Mostafaeipour experienced firsthand how impactful this program can be. Despite holding a master’s degree in public health, she struggled to find a job for six months. “It really helped put the pieces together. It literally built my career,” she shared. The connections she made through the program led her to a full-time position.
The center is dedicated to building a robust workforce of community health workers who act as a bridge between patients and providers, addressing issues of stigma and trust. Melba Borrero, a program coordinator, emphasized their role: “We’re the middle. Whatever they don’t tell the doctor, we commit to building that trust.”
Instructor Alisa Howard believes representation is vital in healthcare. “Students learn how to serve their own communities,” she said. The training program lasts eight weeks and has successfully placed graduates in local clinics, hospitals, and institutions like UNLV and RTC.
The center is situated in an area often described as a “food desert” and “education desert,” meaning access to these resources has been limited. “Now, this is the first building bringing opportunities to people,” Howard noted. Community members are beginning to notice the change, with many expressing excitement about having a college in their neighborhood.
Currently, about 70% of students completing the program find jobs, and that number is expected to rise as the center forges more partnerships with local businesses. Expansion plans are already underway, with additional locations set to open in the eastside and near Bonanza and Pecos.
Such training programs are increasingly crucial. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for healthcare workers will continue to grow, especially in underserved communities where qualified professionals are needed most. With centers like this, Las Vegas is taking steps to ensure that community members not only gain skills but also contribute meaningfully to their neighborhoods.
For more on healthcare trends, you can check out this report.
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