218Workplace Powering
Healthcare

218WP is a career development tool designed to support individuals pursuing opportunities in the healthcare field. It helps uncover often overlooked pathways to employment and career advancement across a wide range of healthcare roles. These pathways may include JET-supported internships, apprenticeships, and both short-term and long-term training programs—such as On-the-Job Training.

218WP serves as a resource for individuals at every stage of their healthcare career—from entry-level positions to retirement—promoting lifelong learning and professional growth. Whether you’re interested in clinical care, medical administration, public health, or allied health services, 218WP connects you to the tools and programs that can help you thrive in the healthcare sector.

34,000+
Current Jobs
63k+
Average Annual Wage
24%
Share of Regional Employment

How do I get into Healthcare

Getting into healthcare offers multiple pathways depending on your interests and goals. Many entry-level positions require only a high school diploma or short-term certification programs. Career Pathways Training (CPT) programs provide full coverage for tuition and books for those new to or advancing their careers in healthcare. You can start with positions like certified nursing assistant (CNA), medical assistant, or phlebotomist—programs that typically take just weeks to months to complete. From there, you can advance through on-the-job training and additional education. Many healthcare employers offer tuition assistance and career ladder programs, allowing you to earn while you learn. Whether you’re interested in clinical care, medical administration, allied health, or public health, there are accelerated online programs and hands-on training opportunities that can get you qualified quickly, no matter where you are in your career journey.

Show me the money

Cost of Education

CNA Certification: $0-$1,500
Medical Assistant: $1,200-$4,500
LPN Program: $6,000-$15,000
RN Associate Degree: $8,000-$20,000
4 Year Degree: $40,000-$80,000

Average Starting wage

No Training After High School: $14/hour
CNA: $16-$18/hour
Medical Assistant: $17-$20/hour
LPN: $22-$26/hour
RN: $28-$35/hour
4 Year Degree: $32-$40/hour

Job Placement

CNA Certification: Virtually Guaranteed
Medical Assistant: Excellent
LPN/RN Programs: Excellent
4 Year Degree: Strong

Myth-Conceptions

Common misconceptions can discourage people from exploring rewarding careers. Let’s set the record straight about opportunities in this sector.

Myth: “You need a medical degree to work in healthcare"

Truth:

Healthcare offers hundreds of career paths that don’t require a medical degree. Medical assistants, dental hygienists, radiologic technologists, phlebotomists, medical coders, and many other roles require 2 years or less of training. You can start a rewarding healthcare career with a certificate or associate degree.
Myth: “Healthcare jobs are only in hospitals”

Truth:

Healthcare careers exist in diverse settings including clinics, schools, corporate wellness programs, insurance companies, home health agencies, research facilities, public health departments, and telehealth companies. The industry is much broader than just hospitals.
Myth: “I can't afford healthcare training"

Truth:

Many healthcare training programs are affordable and offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants. JET-supported programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training opportunities allow you to earn while you learn, minimizing debt while gaining valuable credentials.
Myth: “Healthcare careers are too stressful”

Truth:

While some healthcare roles can be demanding, many positions offer excellent work-life balance. Administrative roles, medical coding, health information technology, and many allied health positions provide stable schedules and manageable stress levels while still making a meaningful impact.
Myth: “There's no room for advancement without becoming a doctor"

Truth:

Healthcare offers clear advancement pathways in every specialty. You can progress from entry-level to supervisory, management, or specialized technical roles. Many professionals advance through additional certifications, specialized training, or moving into education and leadership positions.

Example Healthcare Careers

  • Registered Nurse (RN)
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
  • Medical Assistant
  • Phlebotomist
  • Dental Assistant
  • Dental Hygienist
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Medical Laboratory Technician
  • Radiologic Technologist
  • Surgical Technologist
  • Physical Therapy Assistant
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Respiratory Therapist
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
  • Paramedic
  • Home Health Aide
  • Medical Coder
  • Medical Records Technician
  • Patient Care Technician

Learn More about Some Healthcare Employers

EXAMPLE REGIONAL HEALTHCARE EMPLOYERS

HEALTHCARE

Aspirus St. Luke’s Hospital

Duluth

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HEALTHCARE

Cook Hospital & Care Center

Cook

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HEALTHCARE

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center

Crosby

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HEALTHCARE

Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital

Ely

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HEALTHCARE

Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Medical Center

Brainerd

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HEALTHCARE

Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center

Duluth

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HEALTHCARE

Essentia Health-Virginia

Virginia

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HEALTHCARE

Fairview Range Medical Center

Hibbing

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