The Cape & Islands Workforce Development Board (CIWB) partners are making major strides in healthcare workforce development, thanks to a $1.92 million Healthcare/Behavioral Health Hub Continuation Grant, awarded last year. These powerful collaborations between healthcare providers, educational institutions, community organizations, and labor groups create direct pathways for Massachusetts residents to step into high-demand healthcare and behavioral health careers.
Last summer, CIWB partnered with Broad Reach Healthcare of Chatham to launch an intensive Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program. Ten dedicated employees enrolled in the program, while three training slots were secured in Broad Reach’s Preceptor Training Program, a prestigious initiative designed to develop the next generation of CNA instructors.
The momentum continued into the fall, when CIWB joined forces with Upper Cape Tech’s Practical Nurse program to fund more than 25 training slots in an accelerated, 40-week course aligned with the Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School calendar. This transformative program not only prepares students for the NCLEX-PN but also equips them for dynamic roles in a variety of healthcare settings. For those looking to advance even further, the program offers a clear pathway into registered nursing programs. To ensure accessibility, the grant covers tuition, books, and even living expense stipends for eligible students, removing financial barriers and empowering future nurses.
Jason Lavallee, LNHA and Administrator at Broad Reach Healthcare/Liberty Commons Rehab & Skilled Care, praised the initiative, saying:
“We at Broad Reach are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Cape and Islands Workforce Board. Their support through this generous grant has been instrumental in enhancing our nurse aide training program and expanding CNA preceptor training. Thanks to their commitment to workforce development, we are better positioned to meet our staffing needs and provide high-quality care to our residents. This collaboration not only strengthens our workforce but also helps ensure that our team is equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. We look forward to continuing this impactful partnership and are excited about the future of healthcare in our community.”
These programs aren’t just about filling job vacancies, they are laying the foundation for a resilient, skilled healthcare system that will support the Cape and Islands for years to come. By investing in targeted training programs and fostering strategic partnerships, CIWB is actively shaping a stronger, healthier community.
As demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise, these initiatives ensure that local talent is nurtured, developed, and retained, thereby strengthening both the regional economy and the quality of care available to residents. The success of these programs highlights a powerful commitment to workforce development, proving that when education, healthcare, and community organizations unite, transformative change is possible.
