More than 900 students and teachers expected to be in Montgomery for HOSA Conference this week | Events

Health-related careers are expected to be a popular occupational choice in the future. According to data from the U.S. Department of Labor, the total employment rate for health services managers alone is expected to grow by 22 percent (2010-2020).
 
More than 900 students and teachers travel to Montgomery this week to participate in two days of competitive events and advanced leadership study at the Alabama 2013 Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Leadership Conference, February 7-8. Students attending this conference at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Convention Center will have an opportunity to participate in more than 45 different competitions and workshops.
 
Currently, the national HOSA organization has over 100,000 members throughout the United States. Alabama has approximately 4,000 members. “During this year’s conference, we will showcase 50 different careers that are available to students participating in health science education programs,” says HOSA State Advisor, Collie Wells. “Our student members earn scholarships and help their local communities by participating in national service projects. HOSA’s primary mission is to promote career opportunities in health care fields, and to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.”
 
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of health service and medical managers has grown to more than $84,000 per year. Some of the competitive events that students will be participating in at this year’s conference are Medical Math, Pharmacology, Clinical Nursing, Veterinary Assisting, CPR/First Aid, Forensic Medicine, Researched Persuasive Speaking, Sports Medicine, and Biomedical Debate. The top winners in each competition category will be eligible to represent the state at the upcoming HOSA National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, on June 26-29.
 
Alabama’s career and technical education (CTE) program provides students an opportunity to participate in seven different student organizations including HOSA. Students participating in HOSA have an opportunity to prepare for careers in the following medical areas:

• Human Anatomy
• Physiology
• Growth and Development
• Legal and Ethical Responsibilities
• Medical Language and Safety
• Body Mechanics
• Forensics
• Infection and Disease Control

To learn more about Alabama’s HOSA organization, contact State Advisor, Collie Wells, at (334) 353-1634, or visit the national HOSA website, www.HOSA.org.

Source: State of Alabama Department of Education