Humboldt County Hosts Third Regional Healthcare Education & Workforce Summit
Published on Oct 16 2025Humboldt County welcomed healthcare leaders, educators, and policymakers to the third annual Healthcare Education & Workforce Summit at the Blue Lake Casino Hotel’s Sapphire Palace on October 10th.
The event focused on addressing critical workforce education and training gaps affecting local healthcare employers and developing community-driven solutions to strengthen Humboldt County’s healthcare workforce. The summit was organized and sponsored by the Redwood Coast K-16 Educational Collaborative, Humboldt County Workforce Development Board, North Far North Regional Consortium, College of the Redwoods, Cal Poly Humboldt, Humboldt County Office of Education, and the Humboldt Del Norte Medical Society, building on previous events held in Lake and Mendocino Counties.
The day began with a Land Acknowledgement and Blessing by Dr. Jason Ramos, Chairman of the Blue Lake Rancheria, and opening remarks from Supervisor Michelle Bushnell. Attendees included 4th District Supervisor Natalie Arroyo and candidate for Lieutenant Governor Janelle Kellman, along with representatives from state, county, education, and economic development agencies.
Organizers and panelists engaged in discussions aimed at closing workforce gaps and fostering culturally aware, community-led solutions to the healthcare staffing challenges facing Humboldt County. The summit provided a platform for collaboration and innovation, reinforcing the region’s commitment to building a resilient healthcare workforce prepared to meet the needs of the community.
Amber Cavanugh, Director of Adult and Community Education at College of the Redwoods, and panelist for this event, said, “My hope is that participants left with a sense of collective ownership — that each of us has a role to play in growing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Whether through training programs, supportive services, or partnerships that remove barriers for local residents, we can only meet workforce needs when we co-design solutions rooted in belonging, access, and sustainability. Because at the end of the day, addressing our workforce shortage isn’t just about filling positions; it’s about building a healthcare system that truly reflects and serves the people who live here.