STCC to Host Open House to Explore Health Careers

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) will host Allied Health Careers Exploration Night on Thursday, Nov. 16 to give the public a close-up look at the hands-on programs that lead to in-demand careers in the medical profession.

Scheduled from 4:30 to 7 p.m., the free event, open to the public, is an opportunity to see demonstrations with state-of-the-art training equipment and speak to faculty, staff, and students in the STCC School of Health and Patient Simulation.

While no registration is required, visitors are asked to check in with organizers in the first-floor lobby of Building 20, on the Pearl Street side of the campus.

“We encourage anyone interested in learning more about our programs and health careers to attend,” said Christopher Scott, dean of the School of Health and Patient Simulation. “We’re opening our doors to high-school students, STCC students who are in general studies or other majors, people thinking of changing careers — really, anyone who wants to explore our programs and learn about career opportunities in the health field.”

Some Massachusetts residents may be eligible to enroll in allied health programs at no cost. The state offers a program called MassReconnect, a version of free community college for Massachusetts residents age 25 and older to earn an associate degree or certificate.

The night will feature tours of STCC’s SIMS Medical Center, a nationally recognized patient-simulation facility, and tours of departments. Visitors can meet faculty and current students and observe demonstrations and hands-on activities. Prospective students can ask questions and experience hands-on opportunities that will allow them immersive experiences in each of the healthcare professions offered at STCC.

“This is a terrific opportunity to see if the health care field is a good fit,” Scott said.

STCC offers the following programs to get started on the path to a health career: dental assistant, dental hygiene, diagnostic medical sonography, fire science, health information technology, health science, medical assistant, medical coding and billing specialist, medical laboratory technician, medical office administrative assistant, nursing, occupational therapy assistant, physical therapist assistant, respiratory care, radiologic technology, and surgical technology.

The following courses are also available: certified nursing assistant, emergency medical technician, patient care technician, phlebotomy technician, and sterile processing technician.

For more information, contact the School of Health & Patient Simulation at shps@stcc.edu or (413) 755-7477.