WVU Medicine United Hospital Center (UHC) is proud to announce the return of its Junior Healthcare Academy, a specialized two-day program designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of medical professionals. The academy will host two sessions this summer: June 16–17, 2026, and July 14–15, 2026.
The “Let’s Build Your Future Together” initiative offers incoming 9th through 12th-grade students a unique, no-cost opportunity to step into the shoes of healthcare providers. Participants will receive direct mentorship from experienced registered nurses and explore the core responsibilities of the nursing profession through immersive clinical experiences.
“We are thrilled to open our doors to students who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others,” said Amber Marshall, BSN, RN, Nurse Educator. “Our goal is to provide a bridge between the classroom and the clinical floor. By offering hands-on time in our simulation labs and exposing them to diverse specialties such as radiology and respiratory therapy, we hope to ignite a lifelong passion for healthcare and show these students their future in medicine starts right here at UHC.”
Academy Highlights Include:
-Simulation Labs: Interactive training using high-fidelity mannequins, an OB simulator, and state-of-the-art medical equipment.
-Professional Skills Training: Hands-on skill sessions with respiratory therapy, radiology, and laboratory services.
-Emergency Services: An overview of EMS and HealthNet operations.
-Certification: Participants will earn a certificate of completion in CPR.
Application Information:
The academy is open to all incoming 9th–12th graders with a desire to learn more about healthcare careers. Interested students must submit their applications by May 8, 2026, deadline.
For more information on how to apply forthe Junior Healthcare Academy, please visit bit.ly/4s5WhBC.
About WVU Medicine United Hospital Center
United Hospital Center (UHC) is the result of a merger between St. Mary’s and Union Protestant hospitals in 1970. This bold move provides North Central West Virginia with a regional community hospital that offers a vast array of services. The new UHC opened in 2010 and is located along I-79 in Bridgeport. The 736,403 square foot structure rises eight stories. It is designed around the environment with patients, family, employees, and community in mind, which includes enhanced patient privacy, a high level of technological integration, and improved access to care. The acute care facility has 292 private inpatient rooms and a medical staff that consists of more than 366 physicians, advanced practice providers, and allied health professionals. UHC has more than 2,613 employees and is a member of WVU Medicine (West Virginia United Health System). For more information about UHC, please visit uhcwv.org.
