The Healthcare Career Pathway (HCP) was initially founded in 2019 by Empowered Aging, Mt. Diablo Adult Education, and Opportunity Junction. With funding from the John Muir Community Health Fund, the purpose was to increase the number of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and improve the quality of care for residents in skilled nursing facilities in Contra Costa County. Since its launch, HCP has been recognized by industry leaders and was included in the Master Plan for Aging in 2020 as a Local Model Program. With funding from California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI), HCP has expanded to Alameda, Lake, Kern, and Sonoma Counties and plans to launch in Mendocino County in Fall 2025. HCP prioritizes enrollment for students with addressable barriers and offers a unique training built around one-on-one and wraparound support services. In addition to CNA instruction and hands on clinical experience, students receive psychosocial support, life skills training, and job placement assistance, to promote long term career goals and personal growth. Fox Pacific Academy was the first expansion site.

The Healthcare Career Pathway program begins with Nurse Assistant Training​

Becoming a CNA is a career, not just a job. The Healthcare Career Pathway Program helps students to gain the skills they need for better pay today and career advancement in the future as they gain skills and confidence.

The need for Certified Nursing Assistants is growing along with the number of patients and long-term care residents. Hospitals and long-term care facilities can’t fill their vacant positions fast enough. 

The Healthcare Career Pathway will help you gain the skills you need to become a CNA. Students graduate the program with the skills to be a compassionate, person-centered healthcare professional. The CNA training helps students to achieve the required certification, and under the HCP Model also provides:

• Tuition waivers (for qualified students)

• Individualized Support to Complete the Program

• Food and Transportation Supports

• Direct Connection to Employers

• Job Placement Assistance

• Continuing Education Opportunities