Opportunity Junction is currently accepting applications for its core workforce development programs – the Administrative Careers Training (ACT) and the Healthcare Career Pathway (HCP), which includes Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Medical Assistant (MA) training programs. All training programs begin in May.
Administrative Careers Training
At no cost to the student, the ACT offers 12 weeks of full-time training in office computer applications, personal development, career skills, and academic enhancement – all paired with wraparound support, including daily hot lunches.
After the 12 weeks, graduates become paid interns for Opportunity Junction, where they can work for up to four months supporting Opportunity Junction staff. Interns also engage in comprehensive career-building activities, including skills assessment, job search, resume and cover letter preparation, and interview practice.
Case managers offer support, ensuring links to childcare, healthcare, transportation, and other essential services. Meanwhile, our health and wellness manager provides support and tools to address trauma and other issues that may hinder employment.
Alumni services include ongoing career counseling and case management, helping alumni maintain employment, obtain a raise or promotion, and, if needed, search for new employment.
As a young, first-time mom, Myhanh Lopes had to make the difficult decision to drop out of high school to start working in retail to make ends meet for her new family. More than 30 years later, she realized she wanted to do more than just get by. After gaining the skills and confidence she needed to succeed through the ACT, Myhanh launched a career as a program specialist for a local nonprofit helping Veterans and families preventing homelessness and providing shelter.
“It was a very rewarding experience to be part of the ACT program. If my neighbor hadn’t pushed me, I think I would have gone back to retail, because that’s what I knew. Take a chance on yourself, and you will see how far you can go.”
Certified Nursing Assistant and Medical Assistant
Our Healthcare Career Pathway (HCP) CNA and MA training tracks also combine skills training at no cost to the participant with wraparound services and a professional skills curriculum for those on the healthcare track. Much like the Administrative Careers Training Program, additional services include one-on-one case management, food and transportation support, job placement assistance, and professional skills.
For years, Lucia dreamed of entering the healthcare field. Despite numerous obstacles and fears, she persisted, determined to achieve her career aspirations and provide for her children. Lucia Magana is now a proud graduate of Opportunity Junction’s (OJ) first Medical Assistant (MA) cohort and the first in her class to secure a job offer.
“I’m so excited to be back in the workforce, and I love every aspect of my job,” she said. Now working as a Medical Assistant, Lucia is thriving. She is being cross-trained in all areas. She is working both front and back office operations, allowing her to offer patients a warm welcome while also handling clinical tasks she enjoys.
For more information, visit:
ACT training https://www.opportunityjunction.org/careers/administrative.
CNA training https://www.opportunityjunction.org/careers/cna-training.
MA training https://www.opportunityjunction.org/careers/ma-training.
