Access to higher education has long been a challenge for many individuals, with barriers such as financial constraints, lack of information, and social and geographical limitations preventing them from pursuing their academic and career goals. Despite efforts to make higher education more accessible, these obstacles continue to hinder the aspirations of many would-be students. However, a new initiative called Proxima, a spin-off benefit corporation from The University of Utah, aims to address these barriers and provide education and training opportunities for marginalized communities and populations in Utah.
Proxima was launched with the goal of bringing together higher education institutions, health care providers, community organizations, and government policymakers to break down the barriers to education and train Utahns for future jobs in hospitals and clinics. The initiative is a response to the critical workforce shortage in Utah’s healthcare industry, with a significant need for nurses, mental health practitioners, and other healthcare professionals across the state.
Rich Saunders, the CEO of Proxima, emphasized the importance of addressing the barriers to education that prevent capable individuals from pursuing careers in healthcare. He highlighted the various challenges, including financial constraints, lack of information, and social and geographical limitations, that hinder individuals from accessing the education needed to become healthcare professionals. Proxima aims to help individuals overcome these barriers and visualize a future in healthcare by providing support and guidance throughout their educational journey.
Using a „care team“ approach similar to that used in healthcare, Proxima identifies potential learners, helps them address basic needs, and guides them towards the higher education program that best suits their goals. Whether someone needs to complete their GED or is applying to a certified nursing assistant program, Proxima provides support to help individuals navigate the education and training process, prepare for employment, and plan for long-term career advancement in the healthcare industry.
The partners involved in Proxima work to connect students to education programs that meet the growing workforce needs in the healthcare industry. As a benefit corporation, Proxima is dedicated to creating a „general public benefit“ by positively impacting society and the environment through its work. The initiative has already seen success, with an initial cohort of students from Roots Charter High School in West Valley City completing their CNA training and applying for jobs.
Proxima’s approach focuses on six key pillars: careful screening, intensive coaching and advising, trust-building through consistency, wraparound services and resources, pre-training and tailored workshops, and job shadowing and professional coaching. By providing comprehensive support and guidance, Proxima aims to help participants complete their academic and workforce readiness training and pursue careers in the healthcare industry.
With hundreds of participants expected to complete their training this year, Proxima is making a significant impact on the lives of individuals in marginalized communities and populations in Utah. By breaking down barriers to education and providing support and guidance, Proxima is helping individuals like Natalie, a student at Roots Charter High School, plan for a future in healthcare and pursue their career goals.