The ABC13 Who’s Hiring Job Fair, held at Lone Star College’s Kingwood campus, proved to be a resounding success, drawing in job seekers eager to explore careers in the healthcare industry. Organized in collaboration with Workforce Solutions, the event highlighted the increasing demand for healthcare professionals and provided attendees with resources to access training programs and employment opportunities.
Addressing the Urgent Need for Healthcare Workers
Juliet Stipeche from Workforce Solutions emphasized the critical need for healthcare professionals across Texas. She noted that the governor has created a task force comprising community colleges, university systems, and healthcare providers to help connect local residents to in-demand careers.
Dr. Christina Hagerty, Chief Academic Officer at Lone Star College, explained how institutions like Lone Star are addressing the workforce gap. “With Texas’ growing population comes an increasing demand for healthcare services, particularly for chronic illnesses like diabetes and cancer,” she said. Lone Star College collaborates with ISDs, universities, and external agencies such as Workforce Solutions to develop programs that align with industry needs.
Pathways to a Healthcare Career
The event showcased the variety of career pathways available in healthcare, including both clinical and non-clinical roles. Dr. Hagerty highlighted that Lone Star College offers a range of certification programs—some as short as a few weeks—allowing students to enter the workforce quickly. She encouraged prospective students to meet with advisors to explore programs suited to their skills and passions.
Workforce Solutions also offers scholarships of up to $6,000 per year for eligible students, making it easier to pursue careers in high-demand fields. “You don’t need a master’s or doctorate degree to enter healthcare,” Stipeche said. “Even with a certification, individuals can secure well-paying jobs.”
Opportunities Beyond Traditional Roles
Melissa Steinmetz, Principal Industry Liaison with Workforce Solutions, highlighted that healthcare extends beyond traditional roles like doctors and nurses. She noted that there are numerous opportunities in areas such as health information technology, billing, revenue cycle management, and customer service. “The healthcare system is evolving with new technology, creating a wide range of career options,” she explained.
For those unable to attend the job fair, Workforce Solutions provides career counseling and resources through its website (WRKSolutions.com), where individuals can schedule appointments with career advisors at any of the 28 regional offices.
Career Transitions and Youth Programs
The event also catered to mid-career professionals seeking a transition into healthcare. Many professionals from IT and other industries have successfully moved into healthcare-related roles such as x-ray technology and health information management. Career advisors at Workforce Solutions can help individuals identify transferable skills and suitable career paths.
For young people exploring career options, Workforce Solutions offers programs for individuals aged 16 to 24, including youth services and career exploration events like Jobs Y’all and Hire Gulf Coast Youth. These initiatives provide valuable insights into the healthcare industry and help young adults take their first steps toward a rewarding career.
A Successful Event with Lasting Impact
The job fair ran until 1:00 PM, drawing significant attendance from individuals seeking new career opportunities. Organizers encouraged those who missed the event to visit Workforce Solutions online or in person for guidance on available healthcare careers.
