DC HEAL envisions a thriving and inclusive health care workforce in Washington, DC—one where every resident has a clear and supported pathway to a meaningful career in health care. Through community-driven recruitment, industry-aligned training, and robust employer partnerships, DC HEAL is committed to transforming lives, advancing equity, and building a sustainable talent pipeline that meets the evolving needs of the city’s health care sector.
Join DC HEAL
Washington, DC needs more skilled health care workers and the District of Columbia Health Care Employment & Apprenticeship Link, or DC HEAL, is here to make that happen. DC HEAL helps DC residents—especially young adults—get the training, experience, and connections they need to start and grow careers in health. Whether you’re interested in becoming a certified nursing assistant, medical assistant, or patient care technician, DC HEAL offers a clear path from training to employment. Even better, participants can earn at least $37,000 annually while learning on-the-job through apprenticeships with top health care employers like Whitman-Walker Medical Clinic, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health, Stoddard Baptist Nursing Home, Forest Hills of DC, and Children’s National Hospital.
Why DC HEAL?
What makes DC HEAL stand out is its focus on helping those who have historically faced barriers to employment. DC HEAL actively recruits local talent —including recent high school graduates from across the city—to make sure the next generation of health care workers represents DC’s diversity. Beyond training, DC HEAL provides supportive services like career support and transportation assistance so participants can focus on their future without unnecessary stress. With plans to expand training, strengthen employer partnerships, and offer even more opportunities, DC HEAL isn’t just about getting a job—it’s about building a meaningful, long-term career in a field that truly makes a difference.
Our Talent Development Partner
CityWorks DC is a mission-driven organization focused on creating equitable career pathways for young people in Washington, DC by bridging the gap between education and employment. With a strong track record of building successful apprenticeships and work-based learning models across sectors like IT, infrastructure, and early childhood education, CityWorks DC brings a deep understanding of how to align talent development with industry needs.
CityWorks DC has played a central role in the success of DC HEAL, particularly in the design and recruitment phases of the program. As a leading apprenticeship intermediary across multiple industries in the District, CityWorks DC brought invaluable expertise and strategic insight to help shape and expand this initiative. While DC HEAL represents their first major effort in the health care sector, their commitment to innovation, equity, and workforce development has made them a vital partner in building a stronger, more inclusive health care talent pipeline for Washington, DC.
Industry-Led and Student-Centered Apprenticeships
The CareerWise Portal is the centralized platform for exploring and applying to apprenticeship opportunities supported by CityWorks DC. Designed to connect young adults and career seekers with meaningful career-connected learning pathways, the portal allows users to browse available apprenticeships across various industries, including health care. Through CareerWise, applicants can learn about program requirements, submit applications, and track their progress in one streamlined location. It serves as the primary gateway to CityWorks DC’s network of employer partners and training providers, making it easier to access apprenticeships that lead to high-quality, upwardly mobile careers in the Washington, DC region.
To apply to DC HEAL apprenticeship roles, please create a CareerWise account.
jpalmer@dcha.org
cjones@dcha.org
kcooper@dcha.org
The DC Health Care Workforce Partnership is managed by the District of Columbia Hospital Association Program Services Company, Inc.
The DC Health Care Workforce Partnership is funded wholly or in part by the Government of the District of Columbia Workforce Investment Council (WIC).