Second Career Adults

Switching careers can be daunting, but if you’re considering a move into healthcare, you’re not alone. Many people transition into the medical field later in life, drawn by the stability, job satisfaction, and opportunity to make a real difference. Whether you’re coming from the military, hospitality, retail, or any other industry, healthcare offers a rewarding second career with diverse opportunities.

Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, offering high demand, job security, and competitive salaries. Here’s why many professionals make the switch: 

• Job Stability: The demand for healthcare workers continues to rise, with roles in medical assisting, pharmacy technology, and healthcare administration growing rapidly. 

• Meaningful Work: Unlike some industries where job satisfaction can wane, healthcare professionals make a direct impact on people’s lives every day. 

• Flexible Career Paths: Whether you prefer direct patient care, administrative work, or behind-the-scenes roles, there’s a place for you in healthcare. 

• Opportunities for Growth: Many healthcare careers offer pathways for advancement, allowing you to specialize or continue your education to take on higher roles over time. 

If you’re looking for a career that provides purpose, stability, and growth, healthcare could be the perfect next step for you. 

Starting a New Career in Healthcare 

Transitioning into the medical field later in life is both possible and rewarding. Here’s how you can make the shift: 

• Explore Your Options: Research healthcare careers that align with your skills and interests, such as phlebotomy, surgical technology, nursing, or healthcare administration. 

• Get Certified: Start with a short-term certification, like phlebotomy, to gain entry into the field. You can build on this with further education later. 

• Use Tuition Reimbursement: Many healthcare employers offer tuition assistance for continued education and certifications. 

• Gain Hands-On Experience: Look for internships or entry-level roles to develop skills and network within the industry. 

• Network and Seek Mentorship: Connect with professionals, join associations, and find mentors to guide you through the transition. 

• Be Flexible and Stay Open-Minded: Your past experience in other fields can be valuable in healthcare, so leverage your existing skills while adapting to new opportunities. 

A career in healthcare offers stability, job satisfaction, and room for growth—making it an excellent choice for a second career. 

Resources:

• National Healthcareer Association: The NHA offers certifications in various allied health professions to enhance your credentials and improve employability
• Bureau of Health Workforce: The BHW provides scholarships, loan repayment programs, and grants to support individuals pursuing career in health professions. 
• Careeronestop: How to Switch Careers Guide 
• FederalStudentAid: Find and Apply for Scholarships 
• Usa.gov: How to change careers 
• Freedom Scholarship: South Dakota Freedom Scholarship 
• Careeronestop: Scholarship Finder 
• Build Dakota: Build Dakota Scholarship 
• SD Department of Education: Scholarships 
• Dakota Dreams South Dakota: Scholarships