Free on-the-job training program for hospital support staff starts June 6

A new program, the Environmental and Food Service Associate Training Program, will offer free work skills and on-the-job training for hospital house cleaning and food service. 

A partnership between UPMC in Central Pennsylvania and HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College, the 8-week program requires no prior experience and will pay students for their work during the second half of the program. 

“This is a convenient way for someone without a degree or experience to get started on a great career path,” said Lou Baverso, chief operating officer, UPMC. “Housekeeping and Food Services are important and valued departments, and their teams contribute greatly to patient care.”  

The program starts with four weeks at HACC’s STEP Academy, a career-readiness training program that includes effective communication, conflict resolution and customer service.  

Completion of the STEP Academy will be followed by four weeks of Environmental and Food Services on-the-job training with pay at UPMC Harrisburg, where students learn food safety, food preparation and housekeeping duties.  

“HACC is proud to once again partner with UPMC to provide short-term training for needed entry-level jobs in the growing health care industry,” said Vic Rodgers, HACC vice president of workforce development and continuing education. “This opportunity provides graduates a pathway to careers in health services and addresses an important need in our communities.” 

 Upon successful completion of the program and meeting all work requirements, graduates have their choice of job openings in UPMC’s housekeeping or food services areas in any of its central Pennsylvania hospitals. These are full-time positions with benefits, including health insurance and paid time off.  

Classes start Monday, June 6. Interested students must enroll by Friday, May 27, and attend a mandatory new student orientation on Friday, June 3. To enroll or find out more visit HACC.edu/STEP, call 717-736-4214 or email [email protected].