#United States #Portland #Concorde Career Colleges #Marquis Companies #LPN Program

Concorde and Marquis: A Success Story in Nursing Education

In a proactive response to the nursing shortage in Oregon, Concorde Career Colleges and Marquis Companies have reaffirmed their commitment to a successful partnership that addresses the educational needs of prospective Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Together, they are finding innovative solutions to train and retain nursing professionals in the state.

In light of the current demand for healthcare services, particularly in senior living facilities, this partnership provides a structured pathway for existing employees of Marquis Companies to enhance their qualifications. Those who meet established criteria can apply for a generous $12,000 forgivable loan to attend the nursing program at Concorde's Portland campus. This arrangement not only supports employees in their educational pursuits but also requires a multi-year work commitment in return. Marquis forgives a portion of the loan for each year of service, promoting employee retention and growth.

Background of the Partnership

The collaboration gained momentum during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic when Marquis Companies faced their own employee shortages amidst heightened competition from hospitals seeking new LPN graduates. Meagan English, Chief People Officer at Marquis, expressed the urgent need for a program that would allow them to develop their own loyal workforce. “We aimed to find a method to support those who have demonstrated reliability and competence within our organization,” she stated, leading them to reach out to Concorde with their proposal.

At its core, the initiative highlights a strategic partnership that benefits both the employees and their employer. Through the ‘Peak Pathways Career Development’ program, Marquis is investing in the skills of their workforce, which in turn enhances their ability to provide quality care in senior living environments.

The Path to Nursing

Marquis employees interested in the nursing program undergo a rigorous selection process, which includes written essays and recommendations from superior staff. To qualify, candidates must have at least six months of tenure, with priority given to those with longer service periods. This structured approach ensures that committed and capable individuals enter the nursing profession. With 13 employees having successfully graduated from the program and 12 more currently enrolled, the partnership is starting to yield positive outcomes.

Kevin Prehn, President of Concorde Career Colleges, emphasized the value of this partnership, stating, “Investing in our employees' education not only fosters personal growth but also enhances workforce stability.” He sees it as a model for other employers seeking to develop their talents while contributing to the broader community's healthcare needs.

Future Developments in the Partnership

Looking ahead, Marquis plans to scale the program's impact by increasing the cohort size for incoming students. Rather than facilitating multiple small groups throughout the year, the goal is to have one larger cohort to foster stronger support networks among the participants. “We believe that working and studying together as a cohesive group enhances their experience and builds lasting connections within our organization,” added English.

With the next round of enrollments set to begin in July, the partnership is gearing up for continued growth. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the projected job growth in the Portland Tri-County area, estimated at 9.8% between 2023 and 2033—significantly higher than the national average for nursing roles. These projections underscore the critical need for skilled LPNs in the region, making the partnership between Concorde and Marquis not just relevant, but essential.

Conclusion

The ongoing collaboration between Concorde Career Colleges and Marquis Companies serves as a commendable example of how innovative partnerships can effectively address workforce shortages in critical industries like healthcare. Through programs like Peak Pathways, Marquis is dedicated to nurturing the professional development of its employees while simultaneously enhancing the quality of care provided to Oregon's aging population.

For more information on Concorde’s nursing programs, visit concorde.edu/nursing-programs.