Published on September 10, 2025.
Bakersfield, California has quickly become one of the state’s fastest-growing cities, with new residents moving in every year. Alongside this growth is a rising demand for healthcare professionals. From surgical centers to local hospitals, employers in Kern County are searching for skilled workers—but often struggle to find qualified candidates. That’s where Altamont Healthcare’s Bakersfield campus makes a difference. With nationally recognized programs in Surgical Technology, Sterile Processing, and EKG Technician training, Altamont provides Bakersfield residents with a reliable pathway to rewarding careers in healthcare.
Healthcare in Bakersfield: Community Growth, Rising Demand
Bakersfield is home to more than 400,000 residents, with an even larger population across Kern County. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that healthcare support occupations will see double-digit growth through 2030, especially in growing metro areas like Bakersfield.
Key employers in Bakersfield include:
- Kern Medical Center
- Adventist Health Bakersfield
- Adventist Health Specialty (Includes Bakersfield Heart Hospital)
- Dignity Health Mercy Hospitals
Each of these facilities relies on trained surgical technologists, sterile processing professionals, and EKG technicians to deliver safe and efficient patient care.
Altamont Healthcare’s Programs in Bakersfield
1. Surgical Technology / Tech in Surgery (TS-C)
- Trains students in surgical procedures, instrumentation, and aseptic technique.
- Clinical externships with local hospitals ensure real-world training.
- Graduates are prepared for the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Tech in Surgery (TS-C) exam.
2. Sterile Processing & Distribution Technician (SPD)
- Prepares students to manage and sterilize surgical instruments.
- Prevents infections and supports surgical teams.
- Strong demand across Bakersfield hospitals and outpatient centers.
- Graduates are prepared for the CBSPD Technician & GI Scope exams.
3. Electrocardiogram Technician (EKG)
- Focused on diagnostic heart testing and rhythm analysis.
- Students learn to work alongside cardiologists and physicians.
- A fast entry point into healthcare careers.
- Graduates are prepared for the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Electrocardiogram Technician (NCET) exam.
Why Altamont is Bakersfield’s Choice for Healthcare Training
- Strong Clinical Partnerships in Kern County.
- Experienced Instructors with decades of combined experience.
- Flexible Scheduling designed for adults balancing work, family, and education.
Career Outlook in Bakersfield
Healthcare has long been considered a stable career field as humans need healthcare in some form to survive. As the U.S. population skews older over time, we can expect the healthcare sector to remain strong in the coming years as the system strains to care for larger numbers of older adults. Allied healthcare jobs, including medical technicians and technologists, in the United States are expected to grow by 11–20% from 2022 to 2037!
- Surgical Technologists:
- 13% expected job growth (2022-2037)
- Average salary of $67,000 per year.
- Sterile Processing Technicians:
- 11% expected job growth
- Earn $48,000–$55,000 annually.
- EKG Technicians:
- 20% expected job growth
- Earn $45,000–$52,000 per year.
With Kern County’s healthcare system expanding, opportunities for these roles are expected to grow significantly.
Graduate Impact in Kern County
Altamont graduates are already making a difference in Bakersfield. Many are employed at Kern Medical Center and Adventist Health, ensuring patients receive the highest quality of care. Employers consistently note the professionalism and preparedness of Altamont-trained technicians.
FAQs About Altamont Healthcare Bakersfield
Q: Are programs flexible for working adults?
Yes, Altamont offers evening and weekend classes in some programs.
Q: Do graduates get job support?
Yes, Altamont provides career placement assistance and networking with local employers.
Q: How quickly can I start working after graduation?
Many graduates begin working within weeks of completing certification exams.
For Bakersfield residents seeking a career with stability, growth, and purpose, Altamont Healthcare is the trusted choice. With nationally recognized programs, hands-on training, and strong employer connections, Altamont is proud to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals in Kern County.
If you’re interested in Altamont Healthcare, please give us a call at 661-230-6316, email us at [email protected], submit a contact form, or walk in to visit us from Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM at 2601 F St!
