HCTC, ARH mark progress on Allied Health Training Academy

Hazard, Ky.) — Hazard Community & Technical College (HCTC) and Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) held an informational celebration event Wednesday, June 17, to mark continued progress on the ARH Allied Health Training Academy, a workforce training project announced last year.

"We are incredibly grateful for ARH’s partnership and shared commitment to advancing opportunity across our region," HCTC Chancellor Dr. Jennifer Lindon said. "This new initiative reflects what is possible when healthcare leaders, educators, and community partners come together around a common purpose: preparing students for meaningful careers, strengthening the regional workforce, and supporting HCTC's mission and impact. Together, we are helping build a healthier, stronger future for southeastern Kentucky."

Representatives from ARH attended the event to provide information about the academy and its connection to regional healthcare workforce needs. Among those present was Dylon Baker, assistant vice president of workforce initiatives for ARH and an HCTC alum, who has supported the development of training pathways tied to healthcare careers in southeastern Kentucky.

"Our partnership with HCTC has been critical in designing programs that are both academically sound and aligned with the real needs of our healthcare system," Baker said. "Together, we’re ensuring students gain the skills and hands-on experience needed to succeed from day one, opening the door to well-paying, high-demand careers with strong growth opportunities and long-term sustainability right here in our region."

The academy, supported by a $6.7 million U.S. Economic Development Administration grant, is designed to expand hands-on healthcare training opportunities in southeastern Kentucky.

HCTC academic services leaders assisted ARH with curriculum and training development for the academy, which will support education for licensed practical nurses, medical assistants and nurse aides.

"Collaborating with ARH to create pathways echoes the transformation of education into meaningful careers," HCTC Chief Academic Officer Dr. Ella Strong said. "This partnership combines academic excellence with real-world experience, ensuring students gain the skills, knowledge, and hands-on training needed to meet the healthcare workforce demands of today and tomorrow."

The ARH Allied Health Training Academy will be located in the Hazard ARH Medical Mall within Black Gold Plaza. The location connects the project to a commercial center where HCTC has recently supported new and expanding businesses by helping employers connect with potential employees and assisting with employee searches.

The June 17 event provided an opportunity to share information about the project, recognize the partnership between HCTC and ARH and highlight the academy’s role in preparing students for high-demand healthcare careers close to home.

"By offering these programs, we are addressing workforce shortages in our region.  Our graduates will provide a steady pipeline of individuals, reducing the need for temporary and travel agency assistance," Melissa Couch, dean of health and public services programs at HCTC, said. "These adequately trained professionals will significantly improve health outcomes in the region."

The academy is part of a broader effort to strengthen regional healthcare workforce pipelines and create additional pathways into meaningful employment. Through the partnership, students will receive academic instruction and hands-on training aligned with regional employer needs.

HCTC and ARH have also worked together to support nursing students through an ARH-funded scholarship. More than 60 nursing students have received financial assistance while completing their training at HCTC.

"Over the years, ARH’s scholarship support has helped alleviate financial hardship for HCTC students, allowing them to stay focused on their education, complete their training, and better provide for their families," HCTC Dean of Advancement Carla Seals said. "I am grateful to have seen the impact of that partnership firsthand, and I know it will continue opening doors for students across eastern Kentucky."

For more information about HCTC academic programs, contact (606) 487-3293 or email HCTC-Admissions@kctcs.edu.