Des Plaines, Ill. (Aug. 31, 2026) — One year after welcoming its first students, Oakton College’s Health Careers Education Center (HCEC) is gaining momentum, with significant enrollment growth across its programs in cardiac sonography, radiography and surgical technology. The increase reflects the HCEC’s role in preparing students for in-demand careers while helping meet local workforce needs.
Located on Endeavor Health’s Evanston Hospital campus, 2500 Ridge Ave., the state-of-the-art center provides students with hands-on training and real-world experience.
“Oakton’s Health Careers Education Center students are highly motivated because they see a clear path from the classroom to a rewarding career in a high-demand health care field,” said Maribel Alimboyoguen, Oakton’s dean of Health Careers. “We look forward to seeing them complete their programs, enter the workforce and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the patients and communities they will serve.”
Student persistence has remained strong, with 91% of those who began the programs in 2025 still enrolled. The first HCEC students are expected to graduate in spring 2027.
This fall brings another milestone as students in surgical technology and cardiac sonography begin their clinical education experiences, joining radiography students in gaining valuable experience in health care settings. These clinical placements allow students to apply what they have learned in the classroom while developing workforce skills and networking with industry professionals.
The College is exploring opportunities to expand educational pathways, including a medical imaging program, in response to evolving workforce needs of regional health care employers. If you or someone you know is looking for a rewarding career, visit Oakton's Health Careers and Nursing page.