The Red Cross Dental Assistant Program offers a life-changing opportunity for active-duty family members to develop professional skills, gain hands-on experience, and build a career in dental assisting. This 7-to10-month, full-time training program provides participants with a comprehensive education in dental assisting, blending classroom instruction with valuable chairside experience. Open to participants from all military branches, the program has made a meaningful impact on the island of Oahu and beyond.
Program structure and curriculum
The Dental Assistant Program is an intensive training initiative that requires participants to complete 1,000 volunteer hours, combining both classroom and clinical instruction. Candidates are selected through a competitive interview process and must commit to being full-time students. The program begins with a comprehensive two-week didactic course that covers key topics, including dental radiology, instrument sterilization, dental anatomy, and more.
After completing the didactic phase, students are fully integrated into the dental team, working under the direct supervision of dental providers and assistants. This hands-on training enables students to apply their knowledge in real-world clinical settings while gaining exposure to a variety of dental specialties. Most of the training is conducted at Schofield Barracks Dental Clinic, with some students assigned to Bhaskar Dental Clinic at Ft. Shafter, depending on clinic needs.
Program success and outcomes
Since its launch, the program has completed three iterations at Schofield Barracks, graduating a total of 16 participants. In 2024, four of the eight graduates applied for full-time positions on post, and all four were successfully hired.
“I have endless gratitude for the Red Cross Dental Assistant Program and the countless opportunities it has provided for me. I have gained not only knowledge but also some of my greatest friends. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in healthcare,” said Amara Hughes, a 2024 graduate.
The program strives to enroll at least 10 full-time students each year, creating a consistent pipeline of skilled dental assistants. Graduates of the program have consistently shown exceptional skills and a strong work ethic, making them valuable contributors to the dental community.
Beyond preparing participants for immediate employment, the program equips them with a versatile skillset that supports long-term career growth and development.
“The Red Cross program offered a wonderful way to kickstart my career, said Rocio Olivas, 2019 Graduate and Red Cross Lead Dental Assistant. “The connections I made with peers and patients made the experience truly fulfilling. Thanks to this program, I now have employment opportunities regardless of my location.”
Supporting active-duty families
One of the greatest advantages of the Red Cross Dental Assistant Program is the support it provides to active-duty family members, especially during PCS (Permanent Change of Station) transitions to new locations. Unlike traditional dental assisting programs, which can cost between $2,000 and $10,000 and often lack clinical shadowing opportunities, the Red Cross program is offered at no cost to active-duty family members and includes invaluable hands-on chairside experience.
The program’s clinical rotations provide participants with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and work ethic to clinic leaders, often resulting in future job opportunities. Many graduates have successfully transitioned to new clinics after a PCS, as the skills acquired through the program are directly transferable to other military installations. Furthermore, dental assisting develops a versatile skillset that can lead to civilian contract positions, making it an excellent foundation for long-term professional growth.
Impact on the island of Oahu
The Red Cross Dental Assistant Program has had a meaningful impact on Oahu, providing active-duty family members with an invaluable opportunity to develop professional skills while giving back to the local community. The program also helps nurture the next generation of dental assistants and helps them embrace the spirit of community and support that defines our island.
Looking ahead to 2026, Dental Activity-Hawaii is thrilled to announce that applications for the next cohort will open soon. For candidates who want to embark on a rewarding career in dental assisting, DENTAC-Hawaii encourages you to apply and take the first step toward this incredible opportunity. Applications can be obtained and completed through the U.S. Army Dental Health Activity Assistant Training Program application Summer 2026 webpage at https://volunteerconnection.redcross.org/?nd=vms_public_form&form_id=16340.
To be considered for the program, download and submit the form located at the following: https://volunteerconnection.redcross.org/?nd=vms_public_form&form_id=16340, a resume, and two letters of recommendation, qualified candidates must meet the following criteria:
Please ensure all requirements are met to proceed with the application process.
To complete the application process, please submit your resume and two letters of recommendation to mailto:tuyeh.delgado@redcross.org. All application materials can be accessed through the following link: https://volunteerconnection.redcross.org/?nd=vms_public_form&form_id=16340 and must be received by May 20, 2026, to be considered.
“The Red Cross program offered a wonderful way to kickstart my career. The connections I made with peers and patients made the experience truly fulfilling. Thanks to this program, I now have employment opportunities regardless of my location,” said Rocio Olivas, Graduate 2019 and Defense Health Agency Lead Dental Assistant.
| Date Taken: | 04.02.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 04.03.2026 15:23 |
| Story ID: | 561958 |
| Location: | FORT SHAFTER, HAWAII, US |
| Hometown: | SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, HAWAII, US |
| Web Views: | 26 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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