Western Nevada College Continuing Education has announced a new eight-week Community Health Worker (CHW) training program starting October 1. The program aims to offer an affordable and accessible entry into the healthcare field, requiring no previous healthcare experience.
The certification course is 40 hours long and prepares students for roles as Community Health Workers in Nevada. Graduates will earn a certificate that is recognized as in demand and will be equipped with skills to help individuals access health resources.
“Western Nevada College is committed to providing high-quality workforce training that meets the needs of both our students and our communities,” said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “This new Community Health Worker program not only prepares individuals for meaningful careers but also strengthens healthcare access across our region.”
The curriculum follows standards set by the nationally recognized C3 Council and is currently the only weekly in-person CHW training available in Northern Nevada. There is growing demand for Community Health Workers in clinics, public health programs, schools, and justice system services, with their roles supported by agencies such as Medicaid and Medicare.
Jay Kolbet-Clausell, who instructs the program, said: “Community Health Workers are what I call the ‘then what’ professionals. When a doctor tells a patient they need to eat healthier or manage stress and it isn’t happening, the CHW steps in to provide practical, hands-on support. In my classroom, students practice patient navigation, health coaching and community resource mapping — the exact skills they’ll need to bridge the gap between a diagnosis and living well.”
Classes will be held on Wednesdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Western Nevada College over eight weeks. Upon completion of the course requirements, graduates can apply for certification as Community Health Workers in Nevada.
Financial assistance is available through EmployNV, and the program appears on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL), helping reduce financial barriers for prospective students.
Lauren Slemenda Moore, Continuing Education Manager at Western Nevada College stated: “If you’re looking for a meaningful, entry-level healthcare role with room to grow, this program is a great place to start. We’re excited to welcome our first group of students this fall.”
Further details about registration are available at https://wnc.edu/continuing-education/career-training/CHW or through WNC Continuing Education’s contact information.