Phlebotomy is a term that is unfamiliar to many but important to us all. Thanks to the Center for Workforce Development, 20 new graduates not only know what the word means but are now experts who are ready to enter the workforce.

A phlebotomist is responsible for drawing blood samples as well as preparing and properly storing them for transportation to a diagnostic lab. Adult learners in CWD’s Phlebotomy and Lab Services recently completed their 14-week program to become phlebotomists. The May and June cohorts each produced 10 graduates, many of which have since started employment in the field or are in the process of doing so.

“Phlebotomy is one of the fastest growing career fields and is an ideal entry occupation for anyone interested in working in the healthcare field,” said CWD Director Shawna Gareau-Kurtz.

Students learn the skills and techniques to immediately enter the workforce including the collection and preparation of blood and body fluid specimens and the maintenance of records and collection areas. Part of their training includes between 50-100 live sticks, meaning drawing blood from actual patients.

The Phlebotomy and Lab Services program is offered three time a year with the next session beginning on July 18. To find out more and enroll, visit https://www.monroe2boces.org/phlebotomy.