As the healthcare industry grapples with an ongoing nursing shortage, Fortis College in Millcreek, Utah, is taking proactive steps to train the next generation of nurses through its newly launched Practical Nursing degree program. This initiative aims not only to provide essential skills but also to serve as a stepping stone for students aspiring to become registered nurses (RNs). As classes commenced, the program attracted a diverse group of students, each with unique motivations and aspirations. The Practical Nursing program, which began in October of last year, offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the necessary skills to excel in various healthcare settings. The 15-month program covers essential nursing practices, patient care techniques, and foundational medical knowledge. Students will also gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities. Among the first cohort of students is Savanah Negron, a mother of two who travels from Utah County to attend classes while juggling a full-time job. Negron’s passion for nursing was ignited by her personal experiences; both of her children were born with health complications that required intensive care. "When I saw the way the ICU nurses cared for my children, it made me realize the profound impact they have on families during critical times," Negron shared. Her ultimate goal is to become a neonatal nurse, specializing in care for infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Another student, Jenni Vernon, found her calling in nursing after witnessing the compassionate care provided by a hospice nurse to her ailing father. "I always had this in the back of my mind that I want to be a nurse, but she reignited that flame for me," Vernon explained. After working as a certified nurse's assistant, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a registered nurse, believing that her experiences in healthcare would allow her to make a significant difference. Professor Wendy Roberts, who has over 30 years of experience as a registered nurse, is passionate about teaching the next generation of nurses. She has witnessed the dedication and sacrifices made by her students. "Every day, I hear stories that inspire me about their commitment to serving others," Roberts stated. Her extensive background, primarily at Primary Children’s Hospital, has provided her with a deep understanding of the pressing need for qualified nurses in the field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that approximately 190,000 nursing positions will be available annually until at least 2032, underscoring the necessity for more trained professionals in nursing. Many healthcare employers are actively seeking to support the educational advancement of their employees. According to Roberts, once students complete the Practical Nursing program at Fortis College, they often find that employers are willing to assist them in pursuing further education and certifications. "They’re really happy to help you further your career, further your education," she explained, highlighting the collaboration between educational institutions and healthcare providers. Vernon echoed this sentiment, expressing that there is nothing more rewarding than helping a patient recover and move forward with their life. She is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others through her nursing career. Both students are optimistic about the future, believing that their training at Fortis College will provide them with the necessary tools to succeed in a challenging yet fulfilling profession. The next session for the Practical Nursing program is scheduled to begin in April, and Fortis College is encouraging interested candidates to apply. With the nursing workforce in urgent need of qualified professionals, programs like this one are vital to meet the demand and ensure that compassionate care is available to all patients across the healthcare spectrum. As the program continues to grow, Fortis College stands at the forefront of addressing the nursing shortage in Utah, paving the way for aspiring nurses to achieve their goals and make a difference in their communities.