two women wearing purple tie-dyed shirts sit at a table

In a bid to empower and guide budding healthcare professionals on their career paths, CHRISTUS recently hosted its second annual "Rise Up Opportunity Fair" at the Career and Technology Center (CTC).

The Rise Up Opportunity Fair was a platform for students to interact with professionals, ask questions, and explore potential career paths within these healthcare roles. Representatives from various hospital departments shared their experiences and insights, shedding light on the diverse opportunities available at CHRISTUS and beyond.

“This event helps our students connect what they are learning in the classroom and during their clinical rotations at the hospital, to the end goal, employment,” Jessica Brown, CTE Work-Based Learning Coordinator said. “Partnerships like CHRISTUS are another way we provide successful student outcomes.” 

The CTC health science program currently boasts a range of certifications that equip its students with the knowledge and skills needed to secure employment upon graduation. These certifications are not just pieces of paper but steppingstones toward a fulfilling and rewarding career in the healthcare industry.

Here are some of the current health science certifications offered:

  1. Certified EKG Technician: As an EKG technician, students learn to operate electrocardiogram machines, recording and analyzing the electrical impulses of the heart. This certification is essential for those interested in cardiology and heart monitoring.
  2. Certified Nurse Aide (CNA): CNAs play a critical role in patient care. This certification program teaches students the fundamentals of nursing care, including assisting patients with daily activities and vital sign monitoring.
  3. Certified Medical Assistant (MA): Medical assistants are the backbone of healthcare facilities, responsible for both administrative and clinical tasks. This certification prepares students for a versatile role in various healthcare settings.
  4. Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT): Patient care technicians are skilled in drawing blood, performing EKGs, and assisting with patient mobility. This certification is an asset in hospitals and clinics.
  5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): EMTs are the first responders in emergencies, providing critical pre-hospital care. This certification program trains students to handle life-saving situations with confidence.
  6. Pharmacy Technician: With the rise in demand for pharmaceutical services, pharmacy technicians are integral in dispensing medications and assisting pharmacists. This certification opens doors to a vital role in healthcare.

Each of these certifications not only prepares students with hands-on experience but also provides a solid foundation for further education and specialization within the healthcare field.