ILLINOIS — Over the next decade, healthcare careers are expected to grow 13% according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This will add a projected 2 million new jobs to the workforce, many of which boast salaries far higher than the national average. Moreover, the literal health of our nation’s citizens relies on well-trained medical professionals. Encouraging young people to pursue careers in healthcare will be vital not only to the economy, but to the overall wellbeing of our country. This June, Healthcare Career Exploration Summer Academy will do just that.

The new program, offered in partnership by University of Illinois Extension, Spoon River College, and West Central Area Health Education Center, will allow young people to explore a variety of healthcare and medical careers. Participating youth will have the opportunity to practice hands-on skills – like injections, blood pressure monitoring, and EKGs – using state-of-the-art medical simulation equipment. Plus, professionals in the field will provide insight on their current roles and potential career pathways.

Healthcare Career Exploration Summer Academy will be a day-long experience, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offered at each of Spoon River College’s four campuses. Each session will be identical, giving young people the choice of the following dates:

• Mon, Jun 12 – Havana (324 E Randolph, Havana, IL 62644)
• Tues, Jun 13 – Rushville (706 Maple Ave, Rushville, IL 62681
• Wed, Jun 14 – Macomb (208 S Johnson St, Macomb, IL 61455)
• Thurs, Jun 15 – Canton (23235 N County Highway 22, Canton, IL 61520)

This program is open to any youth going into 7th through 10th grades. Registration is required by June 5 at go.illinois.edu/HCSA. Thanks in part to funding from the Illinois Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare (PATH) Workforce Program, cost for individuals will be $10, and will include lunch.