High school students from Oxford County explored the future of health care through Ā鶹APP second annual Medical Bootcamp, an immersive daylong event designed to help students connect their interests with in-demand career pathways across Maine.

Approximately 40 students took part in hands-on activities and program demonstrations led by UMA faculty and staff in nursing, medical laboratory technology, mental health and human services and dental programs. The experience gave students a closer look at the skills, settings and opportunities that shape health care careers, while showing how UMA programs can help them take the next step.

The participating Oxford County high schools are part of a Workforce Opportunities for Rural Communities grant through Community Concepts. Through this partnership, UMA is helping expand access to career exploration for rural students and strengthening pathways into fields that support Maineā€™s communities.

The momentum continues May 12, when will host a second Medical Bootcamp for about 150 students from 12 schools in the Katahdin Region and Washington County. That event will feature Ā鶹APP veterinary technology program along with nursing, , and programs.

UMA is helping students across Maine see what is possible in health care, one hands-on experience at a time.

The Ā鶹APP and the University of Maine at Presque Isle, have partnered to deliver a new Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) to Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) bridge program. As the only MLT to MLS program in Maine and one of just a few in New England, we offer a flexible, fully online path for professionals ready to build on the work they are already doing every day.

For many laboratory technicians, advancing their education can feel out of reach while balancing work and life. This program is designed to meet them where they are, allowing students to continue working as they move toward a bachelorā€™s degree and prepare for national Medical Laboratory Scientist certification.

Behind the scenes of nearly every diagnosis, laboratory professionals play a vital role. An estimated 70% of clinical decisions are informed by laboratory testing, according to the American Society for Clinical Pathology, and the need for skilled professionals continues to grow across Maine and the nation.

ā€œThis program supports professionals who are already contributing to patient care and are ready to build on that experience,ā€ said UMA Assistant Professor of Medical Laboratory Technology Malissa Norfolk. ā€œWith a fully online format and no additional clinical rotations, students can continue their work while advancing their education in a way that fits their lives.ā€

Developed in collaboration with healthcare partners, students gain knowledge they can apply right away, right where they are. The curriculum includes advanced theory in disciplines such as microbiology, molecular diagnostics and laboratory management. 

The program is currently seeking accreditation from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available.