$2.5 million investment delivers hands-on training center to address regional healthcare workforce shortage
RANCHO CORDOVA — Folsom Lake College and Sutter Health celebrated the completion of a new, state-of-the-art Instructional Healthcare Hub at the college’s Rancho Cordova Center.
Made possible by a $2.5 million investment from Sutter Health, the upgraded facility features four modernized career education classrooms equipped with advanced medical technology, including simulators, X-ray machines and hospital beds. The Healthcare Hub was designed to provide hands-on, real-world training for students pursuing careers in high-demand allied health fields.
Programs supported by the new facility include Certified Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, Medical Laboratory Technician, Radiology Technician and Advanced Imaging Technician. Through the enhanced learning environment, students gain practical skills and experience aligned with the evolving demands of today’s healthcare landscape.
The need for expanded healthcare training remains significant across the Greater Sacramento region. According to the Center of Excellence for Labor Market Research, the health sector faces approximately 7,560 annual job openings, while regional education programs produce about 460 completions each year, creating a shortfall of more than 7,100 workers annually. These middle-skilled careers, which require more than a high school diploma but less than a bachelor’s degree, offer accessible pathways to economic mobility.
“This partnership represents a powerful investment in both education and community health,” said Dr. Art Pimentel, president of Folsom Lake College. “By aligning our programs with industry needs and providing students access to cutting-edge equipment, we are preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals while strengthening the region’s diverse workforce.”
“Investing in workforce development efforts generates professional opportunities in the region and helps address California’s health care workforce shortage,” said Rachael McKinney, president of Sutter Health’s Greater Sacramento Division. “Adding well-trained technicians into the field will also play a critical role in helping patients gain greater access to the healthcare services they need.”
“Healthcare is a dynamic profession, offering a fulfilling career that can transform numerous lives,” said Dr. Peter Hull, chief medical officer for Sutter Health’s Greater Sacramento Division. “By investing in locally based training and education programs, we’re building up the healthcare workforce to meet the unique needs of our communities.”
The facility is located at the Folsom Lake College Rancho Cordova Center Empowered by Sutter Health at 10259 Folsom Boulevard in Rancho Cordova. Parking permits were not required for attendees.
Folsom Lake College is a member of the Los Rios Community College District. Since 2004, the college has provided educational opportunities to communities across eastern Sacramento and western El Dorado counties, serving more than 11,000 students at its main campus in Folsom, the El Dorado Center in Placerville, the Rancho Cordova Center and online. The college offers programs that support transfer to four-year institutions, career advancement and the completion of associate degrees and certificates.
Sutter Health is a not-for-profit healthcare system providing care throughout California. The organization serves more than 3.5 million patients through a network of more than 60,000 employees and clinicians and more than 14,000 affiliated physicians, delivering services across hospitals, medical groups, ambulatory surgery centers, urgent care clinics, telehealth, home health and hospice care.
