Students and job seekers exploring career pathways often want to know how quickly they can gain the skills needed to enter the workforce. Across industries like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing, short-term training programs and certifications can provide valuable entry points into high-demand careers.
In a recent Workforce Solutions curriculum webinar, industry liaisons Melissa Steinmets and Lacy Wolf shared insights about training programs, certifications, and the skills students can develop to start their careers.
Certifications That Open Doors in Healthcare
Healthcare offers a wide range of career pathways, including both clinical and nonclinical roles. According to Melissa Steinmets, principal industry liaison for healthcare and life sciences, many entry-level certifications can help individuals begin working in the field.
“Healthcare has a lot to offer.”
Some of the common entry-level certifications include certified nurse assistant (CNA), medical assistant, and emergency medical technician (EMT). Individuals can also pursue more advanced roles such as pharmacy technician, radiology technician, or surgical technician.
In addition to clinical careers, healthcare also includes nonclinical positions such as billing and coding specialists and health information specialists.
Important Certifications in Construction and Manufacturing
In construction and manufacturing, certifications help ensure workers are prepared for the technical and safety requirements of the job.
Lacy Wolf, principal industry liaison for construction and manufacturing, explained that safety training is one of the most important credentials across industries.
“The one that everybody needs is your OSHA safety training.”
OSHA safety training helps workers understand workplace safety practices and prepare for work environments such as construction sites or industrial facilities.
Wolf also noted that additional certifications depend on the specific trade or career path.
“If you’re into manufacturing, you have the CNC, you know the machining. There’s all types of welding certifications.”
These certifications can be combined and built upon as workers gain experience in their field.
How Long Training Programs Typically Take
Many students are surprised to learn that some career training programs can be completed relatively quickly.
According to Steinmets, healthcare training timelines vary depending on the certification. Entry-level programs may take only a few weeks, while more advanced certifications require longer training.
For example:
- Certified nursing assistant programs may take 4 to 12 weeks
- EMT training may take 3 to 6 months
- Medical assistant programs may take about 6 months to a year
More advanced programs, such as surgical technology or radiology technology, may take one to two years to complete.
In construction and manufacturing, training timelines are often similar. Wolf explained that many entry-level programs typically take several months to complete before workers move into more advanced training.
Apprenticeships vs. Technical Training
Students considering technical careers often ask about the difference between apprenticeships and technical school programs.
Technical schools generally follow a classroom-style format where students learn from instructors and complete hands-on training in a structured environment.
Apprenticeships, however, combine classroom instruction with real-world work experience.
“Whereas, like, the apprenticeship programs are more of a handson from the beginning and you’re also getting paid while you’re earning and learning.”
This approach allows students to build skills while working in the industry and earning income at the same time.
Hands-On Skills Students Learn
Training programs focus heavily on practical skills that prepare students for real workplace situations.
In healthcare programs, students learn patient care and clinical skills such as:
- Taking vital signs, including blood pressure and temperature
- Assisting patients with daily activities
- Drawing blood for lab testing
- Performing basic diagnostic tasks
- Documenting patient information
Students also learn to use medical equipment, sterilize tools, and restock examination rooms.
The Importance of Soft Skills
While technical skills are essential, employers also place strong value on soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and professionalism.
Steinmets emphasized that these skills are especially important in healthcare settings where workers interact with patients and colleagues.
“It’s customer service, having that bedside manner.”
She also noted that reliability and communication are critical in healthcare environments where coworkers depend on each other to keep operations running smoothly.
Building a Career Through Training
Many industries offer what are known as “stackable credentials,” meaning workers can start with entry-level training and continue building more advanced certifications as they progress in their careers.
Wolf compared this progression to moving through different levels of school, beginning with foundational skills and advancing into more specialized roles over time.
Through technical programs, apprenticeships, and workforce training partnerships, students have multiple pathways to gain the skills needed to succeed in growing industries.
You can watch the full interview here.
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