Step Up to Health Careers

 A supported pathway into health careers – right here in the Northeast Kingdom.

Step Up to Health Careers is a targeted, supportive workforce development program designed to help rural Vermonters build the skills, confidence, and credentials needed for entry-level healthcare jobs and next-step training opportunities.

Register Here!

About the Program

Northern Vermont Area Health Education Center (AHEC) and Northeast Kingdom Learning Services (NEKLS) partnered to address two urgent Vermont challenges: a growing healthcare workforce shortage and declining post-secondary engagement.

Step Up to Health Careers helps bridge the gap between interest and readiness by offering foundational skill-building, career exposure, and clear pathways into jobs and further education.

This program is for you if you:

  • Are a Vermont resident age 16+
  • Are not currently enrolled in public school
  • Are unemployed or underemployed, or looking for a new meaningful career path
  • Want academic support, computer skills, and confidence before enrolling in college/technical training
  • Are motivated to build a stable career that supports you and your family

Participants can expect:

  • Skill-building in key professional and academic areas
  • Exposure to healthcare roles and career pathways
  • Healthcare-related certifications
  • Support connecting to further training or introductory college classes
  • A local, supportive approach designed with rural Vermonters in mind
  • Financial assistance is available

Current Session Focus

Spring 2026 focuses on entry into jobs in:

  • Patient Reception (Access)
  • Environmental Services

Step Up to Health Careers culminates in interviews for open positions with Northeast Kingdom healthcare employers.

Before starting, applicants must:

  • Complete an application
  • Participate in an interview
  • Complete requirements including background check and required vaccinations

Once accepted, participants agree to:

  • Attend all classes and program sessions
  • Communicate regularly with instructors
  • Complete required homework, certifications, and job shadow commitments
  • Follow program expectations and professional behavior standards

To remain eligible for job shadow experiences, participants must maintain regular attendance and be in good standing in the first half of the program.

Program completion includes:

  • Certificates for skills and knowledge (including CPR, Stop the Bleed, HIPAA)
  • A Step Up to Health Careers Certificate of Completion identifying completed sessions
  • Preparation and support for next steps in healthcare education, training, or employment

Pathways After Step Up

Step Up prepares learners for further education at CCV, Vermont State University, and Adult Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs  –  leading to careers like:
Medical or Dental Assisting, Nurse Assisting (LNA), Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technician, and more.

Step Up meets you where you are. We help you take the next step forward. Your commitment makes that support possible.

Register Here!

Financial Assistance is Available

Contact Annie Christoni for more information about this program at annie.christoni@neklsvt.org