Imperial Valley College creates new career opportunities for students with state funds

Imperial Valley College received 1 million dollars from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. The college plans to launch a new correctional academy and make their current medical assistant program full time.

Imperial Valley College Superintendent/President Martha Garcia said jobs in the medical field and law enforcement are in high demand in the valley.

“We are responding to the employment needs of this community. We’re here. We’re committed to serve our community. Prepare our students and prepare our future healthcare and law enforcement professionals,” said Garcia.

Students can now begin their medical careers in three semesters instead of three years.

Robert Price, IVC Dean of Health and Public Safety said, “By ensuring that we do proper scheduling, look at (what)students needs are. What meets their schedule the best. We’re able to condense that schedule down to three semesters.”

Having more medical assistant workers will greatly benefit the community.

Saul Moreno, a registered nurse for the El Centro Regional Medical Center Outpatient Clinic said,”Oh the impact is going to be great. The community has grown so much and the need for healthcare workers is in such high demands. So having them come out earlier to help out with us helps the community, for the patients to get the care that they need.”

Some of the funds will pay for nursing outfits and books.

Roberta Webster, IVC Associate Dean of Nursing and Allied Health said, “We are designated as low income, medically underserved community. So this is just helping students that would not have the opportunity to be able to be in a program like this.”

The new correctional academy will begin next fall.