Universal Technical Institute: Marquis Companies Tackles Nursing Shortage through Employee Education Partnership
- Marquis Companies partners with Concorde Career Colleges to offer forgivable loans for nursing education to employees.
- Employees can access up to $12,000, forgivable at $4,000 per year of service as a licensed practical nurse.
- This initiative supports employee development, retention, and addresses the nursing shortage in the Portland area.
Forging Pathways in Nursing Education: Marquis Companies Partners with Concorde Career Colleges
Marquis Companies takes a significant step toward addressing the persistent nursing shortage by partnering with Concorde Career Colleges to enhance its "Peak Pathways Career Development" program. This initiative introduces forgivable student loans aimed at enabling eligible Marquis employees to pursue nursing qualifications at Concorde's Portland campus. Each employee can access a loan of up to $12,000, which becomes forgivable at a rate of $4,000 for every year served as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) post-licensure. This strategic move not only supports the educational ambitions of Marquis employees but also aims to improve staff retention and mitigate recruitment costs within the organization.
The partnership emerges in a challenging landscape where healthcare providers face a critical shortage of skilled nurses, particularly in the Portland Tri-County area. According to projections, job growth for nursing positions in this region is anticipated to reach 9.8% from 2023 to 2033, a rate significantly higher than the national average. Kevin Prehn, President of Concorde Career Colleges, underscores the importance of this initiative, stating that it enhances accessibility to education while simultaneously addressing the urgent demand for skilled nursing professionals. The rigorous application process for employees—encompassing essays and recommendations—ensures that those selected are committed and seasoned individuals who aim to elevate the quality of care in senior healthcare settings.
The outcomes of this collaboration are already evident, with thirteen employees having graduated and twelve currently enrolled in the nursing program. Meagan English, Chief People Officer at Marquis, expresses pride in the program's ability to cultivate high-performing employees dedicated to their roles. This partnership not only reinforces Marquis Companies' commitment to professional development but also positions the organization as a key player in tackling the nursing workforce crisis. By investing in its employees through education and career advancement opportunities, Marquis fosters a culture of growth and retention while simultaneously contributing to the healthcare ecosystem in Portland.
In addition to enhancing employee skills, this initiative reflects a broader trend in the healthcare industry where organizations are increasingly focused on developing their internal talent pools. By prioritizing employee education and career advancement, companies like Marquis Companies are setting a precedent for sustainable workforce development. As the nursing shortage remains a pressing issue, programs like the "Peak Pathways Career Development" initiative serve as vital resources for both employees and the healthcare community at large.
As Marquis and Concorde continue their partnership, the potential for expanding this model could lead to further innovations in nursing education, ultimately benefiting the entire healthcare sector. This collaboration exemplifies a proactive approach to workforce challenges, ensuring that quality healthcare remains accessible and effective in the face of growing demand.
