Career Training

The Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) training program is a six-to-eight-week hybrid training opportunity located in Sitka or Wrangell. The program prepares trainees to take the national certification exam. Participants engage in both online coursework and hands-on clinical practice, ensuring they gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills.

Clinical Assistant 1 position is a seventeen-week hybrid training opportunity made in partnership with Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). The online program prepares candidates to earn the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant certification from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA-CCMA).

The Dental Health Aid Therapist (DHAT) Program is a 2-year degree certificate program sponsored by SEARHC and offered through the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) in Anchorage. A DHAT is a dental team member who works under the supervision of a licensed dentist providing a specific range of services.

Within the DHAT program, trainees learn to perform preventive dental services, basic restorations and uncomplicated extractions. These services can include basic fillings, diagnostics, community health engagement and other procedures.

Individuals interested in enrolling in the DHAT Program should inquire at their local SEARHC dental clinic.

Behavioral Health Access Representative (BHAR) position is an opportunity to enter the administrative side of behavioral health. This position receives on-the-job training with the ability to excel in customer service and logistic support. Candidates should have the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. Two years of office experience (medical setting preferred) or business/administrative class in school will be considered.

The Central Sterilization Technician is an opportunity to enter the field of medical sterilization and learn about epidemiology and infection control. Technicians learn and apply sterilization industry standard while also providing administrative and procurement support to the assigned department. Further training and certification through the Certification by Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) or Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) is required.

The Imaging Tech Aide program is a rare opportunity to enter the evolving field of imaging. Candidates obtain program prerequisite, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant certification, then proceed to obtain licensure as a Limited Scope Radiologist Technician (LSRT) before matriculating into an associate’s degree program with a partner university. The on-the-job training component focuses on patient check-ins, appointment scheduling and software programs related to imaging.

The Patient Registration Specialist (PRS) Trainee position is an opportunity to enter the administrative side of healthcare. Trainees learn customer service skills, how to schedule patient appointments, registration and insurance validation. This role offers flexible hours and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

The Pharmacy Technician Trainee position is a competency-based apprenticeship opportunity in partnership with Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). Trainees become proficient in technician tasks under the supervision of the pharmacist, obtain the AK Pharmacy Technician license as soon as possible and obtain the National Pharmacy Technician Certification within one year.

The Security Officer Trainee position is an opportunity to enter the field of healthcare security and safety. Trainees learn to deescalate potential security situations, maintain good executive function in stressful or emergency situations and obtain a basic level certification through the International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS).

Dental assistants support dentists and dental hygienists in providing patient care, performing both administrative and clinical functions. Administratively, they may schedule appointments, maintain patient records or dental supply inventories, handle billing and insurance processes, and manage the front desk operations. In the clinical setting, dental assistants help ensure the smooth flow of patient care. They prepare the treatment area, sterilize and arrange instruments, and assist the dentist during examinations, restorative procedures, and surgeries. Additionally, they may take dental impressions, perform preliminary X-rays, and provide post-operative instructions to patients.