Today, Tyler ISD health science students explored the many career opportunities available in healthcare during the fifth annual CHRISTUS Rise Up Opportunity Fair at the Tyler ISD Career & Technology Center (CTC).
The annual event brought together professionals from across CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System to give students an inside look at the wide range of careers available within the healthcare industry. Representatives hosted interactive tables, activities and conversations designed to help students connect their classroom learning and clinical experiences to potential careers.
This year, 557 Tyler ISD students are enrolled in upper-level health science courses at the CTC, making the opportunity fair an important connection between education and the workforce.
“Opportunities like the Rise Up Opportunity Fair allow our students to see the many possibilities that exist within healthcare and, more importantly, to envision themselves in those careers,” CTE Work-Based Learning Coordinator Jessica Brown said. “Our students are gaining valuable knowledge and skills in the classroom and through their clinical experiences, and partnerships like CHRISTUS help them understand how those experiences can translate into meaningful careers.”
Students had the opportunity to learn about careers and pathways represented by numerous CHRISTUS departments, including Acute Care Nursing, Child Life Specialists, CHRISTUS EMS, Laboratory, Pain Management Nursing, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Radiology, Respiratory, Sports Medicine, Talent Acquisition, and Volunteer Services.
The event also highlighted the career-ready opportunities available through Tyler ISD’s health science program. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications, including Certified EKG Technician, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT), Emergency Medical Technician, and Pharmacy Technician.
These certifications can give students valuable credentials as they enter the workforce while also providing a foundation for continued education and career advancement.
“The goal is to help students see the connection between what they are learning, what they experience during their clinical rotations and what comes next,” Brown said. “When students make that connection, they leave with a clearer understanding of their options and a stronger sense of what is possible for their future.”
The CHRISTUS Rise Up Opportunity Fair is one example of how the CTC works with community and industry partners to provide students with authentic, work-based learning experiences and prepare them for success beyond high school.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.