From the apprentice program to in-services, Virginia Health Services is committed to the development of its team members and promoting from within. Nursing Professional Development Week (Sept. 14-20) presents the opportunity to highlight professional development opportunities available through VHS.

Apprentice program

Our education team is a starting point for many new team members.

Care Assistants enter the earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship program and graduate to Nurse Aides. The program covers the cost of the certification exam to be a CNA and the education team offers reviews to further prepare students for the test.

The Peninsula class is held at the Education, Enrichment, Employment (EEE) Center in Port Warwick, with hands-on training at James River or Coliseum Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers. A program also is offered in Gloucester at Walter Reed Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Learn more about the program at vahs.com/apprenticeship.

The program is led by Director of Education Princess Henderson, BSN, RN. Instructors include Terry Williamson, LPN; Nora Gillespie, RN; and Tracy Williams, RN, BSN.

The team, which includes Process Improvement Manager Cerissa Atkins, also organizes and leads new employee orientation at the Launch Center, also on the corporate campus in Port Warwick.

Nursing team training

The investment in development of our nursing professionals at Virginia Health Services extends beyond our earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship program.

The education team is the first group to try out new equipment and deliver training. It also can offer prep assistance for individuals in a RN program by request. It can help with school selection and get the process going.

Cerissa said being prepared and setting a timeline is key. “Don’t delay,” she said of starting the process. Deciding where to go, finding financial assistance and applying takes time.

Princess said nursing schedulers will help accommodate school schedules and be flexible with individuals on development pathways.

The education team also offers knowledge-based in-services and addresses pressure areas in facilities, such as setting up IV labs, PPE demos and other training. CPR certification training is offered at EEE.

Partnership programs

They also work with Director of Team Engagement Kathryn Fisher, who can connect team members to assistance, scholarship opportunities and nursing programs that offer discounts to VHS employees.

Outside opportunities to grow at Virginia Health Services include partnerships with ECPI and South University. Both offer discounted tuition to VHS employees and their dependents. The universities offer nursing programs, and also extend to team members in dietary, accounting, IT and management.

Join our team

Virginia Health Services offers career options in nursing including CNA, LPN, RN, MDS roles and leadership positions. We provide flexible scheduling options, competitive wages and benefits, early wage access and more. Visit vahs.com/careers to start your career journey with VHS today.