Growing Our Own: Building Berkshire County’s Healthcare Workforce
The Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association (MHA) recently highlighted hospitals and health systems across the commonwealth that are developing new approaches to strengthen healthcare access, workforce development, and community-based care. The “Innovative Firsts” series recognizes organizations building long-term solutions to some of healthcare’s biggest challenges, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Among the organizations featured was Berkshire Health Systems, recognized for its leadership in workforce pathway programs designed to grow the next generation of caregivers locally.
Career Pathways Programs Create Local Opportunities and Strengthen Community Care
As healthcare organizations nationwide continue to face workforce shortages, Berkshire Health Systems is investing in a long-term solution focused on local talent, education, and career growth.
Featured by the Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association’s “Innovative Firsts” series, the BHS Career Pathways Program was created to help community members enter healthcare careers through paid education and hands-on training opportunities.
Launched in 2021 in response to growing workforce challenges, the program combines paid employment, tuition support, academic partnerships, and clinical experience to help participants build meaningful healthcare careers without many of the traditional financial barriers associated with medical education.
Programs are offered in partnership with local educational institutions including Berkshire Community College, McCann Technical School, and Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Training opportunities include nursing pathways, medical assistant programs, radiology specialties, biomedical equipment training, and other clinical and technical roles.
According to BHS, the Career Pathways Program has produced more than 500 graduates since 2022, supported by a multi-million-dollar annual investment and strong employee retention rates.
The initiative is also closely connected to the health system’s broader medical education mission. Through Berkshire Medical Center, BHS offers undergraduate clinical education, residency programs, and new transition-to-practice opportunities designed to strengthen the healthcare workforce across the region.
By building healthcare career opportunities locally, BHS aims to strengthen both the workforce and long-term access to care throughout Berkshire County.
Clinical Education & Training opportunities
CTA See all of our Clinical Education & Training opportunities here:
Learn More