Three new massage therapists hit the job market this week after they graduated from Isothermal Community College with new certifications.

The graduates are Collin Smith, Holly Hopkins and John Hood.

Isothermal’s Massage Therapy program provides 660 hours of training, combining lecture time with hands-on practice of massage techniques. Coursework includes anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, business practices, ethics and specific massage modalities. Students gain hands-on experience by working with the public in a clinic setting through the program’s student massage clinic. 

The Massage Therapy program graduates may sit for the MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam) and apply to NCBMBT (North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy) for their license to practice massage in the state of North Carolina.   

Isothermal’s program prepares students for a career in massage therapy in hospitals, health and fitness centers, wellness centers, chiropractic offices, resorts, spas, nursing homes and cruise ships, or provides the opportunity to start their own business. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 23 percent from 2012 to 2022.

Registration is now taking place for a new class, scheduled to begin on Jan. 8. Those interested in learning more may call the Polk Center at 828-894-3092. Financial aid opportunities are available for qualifying students. 

– Submitted by Mike Gavin