The Mat-Su College and Career Fair has long been a vital resource for students in Alaska, helping them connect with educational and career opportunities. Held annually, this event brings together colleges, employers, and community organizations from across the state and beyond. In the past, it has featured universities like the University of Alaska, Alaska Pacific University, and Charter College, alongside other institutions focused on helping students plan their future. This year, Sunshine Community Health Center (CHC) will proudly be a vendor, showcasing our commitment to healthcare careers and workforce development.
Mark your calendars for October 10, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Menard Sports Center in Wasilla! Stop by our booth to learn more about exciting programs like the Alaska Primary Care Apprenticeship Program, the Mat-Su Health Foundation Scholarship Program, and Sunshine CHC’s Grow Your Own & Staff Scholarships. These initiatives are designed to help students and community members pursue meaningful, fulfilling careers in healthcare.
The Alaska Pathway to Healthcare Careers
Did you know that roughly 50% of Alaskan high school graduates go on to attend college? Of those students, a significant number pursue degrees in health-related fields, which reflects the increasing demand for healthcare professionals across the state and nationwide. Healthcare careers offer stability, growth, and the opportunity to make a positive, lasting impact on others—making it one of the most rewarding career paths available today. In fact, the healthcare industry is not only essential but also one of the fastest-growing fields, ensuring job security for years to come.
The Financial Rewards of a Healthcare Career
Alaska offers competitive pay for healthcare workers. On average:
Registered Nurses in Alaska earn around $96,000 annually.
Medical Assistants average about $45,000 per year.
Lab Technicians can expect to earn around $62,000 annually.
While federally qualified health centers, like Sunshine CHC, operate as non-profits and may not always match these figures, they provide something even more valuable: a sense of purpose. In addition to making a direct impact on patients' lives, healthcare professionals working in community health centers benefit from mission-driven environments, strong community ties, and the knowledge that they are serving vulnerable populations.
Sunshine CHC: Grow Your Own Platform
At Sunshine CHC, we believe in investing in our team’s growth and success. Our Grow Your Own platform allows us to hire staff without requiring credentials upfront and then help them grow into their desired roles. Employees are given the support they need to pursue further education, training, and professional development—all while working in a collaborative, team-based care model. Sunshine CHC is a Patient-Centered Medical Home that values personal development and professional achievement, offering a rewarding work-life balance and opportunities like student loan repayment programs, community outreach, and a supportive work environment.
Real Stories of Growth at Sunshine CHC
We’ve seen firsthand how our approach transforms the lives of our employees and the community:
Layla Micheli started as a Medical Assistant, learning and growing under the guidance of our Chief Nursing Officer, Duronda Twigg. With encouragement from Sunshine CHC, Layla took time off to complete her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training and returned to lead her own patient panel as a nurse. Her journey is a shining example of how we help our staff grow and make a lasting impact on the community.
Sierra Winter joined Sunshine CHC as a receptionist over 10 years ago and has since worn many hats, from dental assistant to quality manager. Thanks to the flexible hours and support she received to pursue her associate's degree online, Sierra found her true calling in community health. She is now our Community Relations Manager, thriving in a role that fits her skills and ambitions.
Sky Pride began on the front lines more than 10 years ago and worked her way up through the dental department. Today, she is an expert in Human Resources, using her wealth of knowledge to support the organization that helped her grow and find her perfect fit.
The Benefits of Working for Sunshine CHC
Sunshine Community Health Center offers an array of benefits designed to support a fulfilling career and quality of life for our employees:
Paid time off and 8 paid holidays per year
Continued Medical Education (CME) & Continued Education (CE)
401K & Roth Contribution Retirement Plans with a 4% employer match
Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan, FSA, and Dependent Care FSA
Group Short and Long-Term Disability, Life & ADD Insurance
Student Loan Repayment Program and Student Tuition Programs
Sunshine CHC employees also enjoy the unique experience of living and working in small Alaskan communities. As part of our team, you’ll become integrated into the northern valley, surrounded by natural beauty and a close-knit community.
A Reliable and Rewarding Career Path
Healthcare is not only one of the most reliable career fields but also one of the most fulfilling. No matter how technology advances, healthcare professionals will always be needed to care for patients, advocate for their well-being, and contribute to the community. Few careers offer the same combination of stability, opportunity for personal growth, and the ability to positively impact others’ lives.
Explore Healthcare Opportunities at the Mat-Su College and Career Fair
Join us at the Mat-Su College and Career Fair on October 10th to explore the many opportunities Sunshine Community Health Center has to offer! Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or looking to switch careers, we are here to help you grow into a successful healthcare professional.
Be sure to stop by our booth to learn more about Sunshine CHC’s programs, benefits, and how we’re transforming lives, one healthcare career at a time. And don’t forget to check out our careers page for current opportunities: Join Our Team.
Sunshine Community Health Center
1-907-376-2273 (PANGANGALAGA)
*This article was written with the support of AI*