#United States #Carson City #Nursing Programs #Unitek Learning #Carson Tahoe Health

Expanding Educational Horizons for Healthcare Workers

Unitek Learning has recently announced an initiative aimed at enhancing the educational prospects of employees at Carson Tahoe Health through the introduction of flexible nursing and medical assisting programs. As a prominent provider in healthcare education and workforce development, Unitek is stepping up to meet the needs of working adults striving for advancement in their careers while addressing the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in Northern Nevada.

A Proactive Approach to Workforce Development

In collaboration with Carson Tahoe Health, Unitek is introducing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Practical Nursing (PN), and Medical Assisting (MA) programs. This decision responds directly to feedback from hospital staff who expressed a desire for more accommodating educational options that would allow them to continue performing their duties while pursuing their academic goals. By leveraging Unitek College's innovative blended learning approach—encompassing both online educational modules and hands-on clinical training—the hospital is poised to foster a more educated and capable workforce.

Jeff Conlon, CEO of Unitek Learning, emphasized, "The program has been designed for the working adult. Carson Tahoe heard directly from its employees about the need for flexibility in their education, allowing them to earn a degree while maintaining their professional commitments. The blend of online and in-person courses has been intentionally created to address that need. We are committed to supporting Carson Tahoe's mission of investing in its workforce."

Michelle Miller, Vice President and Chief HR Officer at Carson Tahoe Health, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the program not only allows healthcare staff to progress in their careers but also ensures they remain engaged in patient care.

Tailored Learning Experience for Busy Professionals

Unitek College's nursing programs are designed to cater specifically to the schedules of working professionals. The PN program can be completed in as little as one year, presenting a flexible entry point into the nursing field. For those pursuing a BSN, the first year is 100% delivered online, enabling students to balance their studies with work commitments seamlessly. Students in both programs will enjoy an integrated approach to learning, where they advance to practical, hands-on training only after establishing foundational knowledge through online instruction.

Furthermore, the MA program also adopts the same flexible structure, combining online classes with essential lab training. By offering comprehensive certifications, including OSHA/BBP, HIPAA, Phlebotomy, and EKG, graduates will be equipped to take national certification examinations such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).

Meeting Workforce Challenges in Rural Nevada

Rural hospitals in Nevada are experiencing significant staffing challenges, affecting their ability to provide adequate care. According to the 2024 Workforce Report from the Nevada Hospital Association, vacancy rates for nursing positions in rural areas are almost double those found in urban settings. The limited availability of local training programs exacerbates these challenges, making it hard to attract and retain talent.

By rolling out these flexible education programs directly to the employees of Carson Tahoe Health, Unitek College aims to bridge this gap. The initiative encourages healthcare workers to upskill, obtain new qualifications, and ultimately provide the necessary care to the communities in Northern Nevada.

About Unitek Learning

As a parent organization to multiple educational institutions—such as Unitek College, Eagle Gate College, Provo College, and Brookline College—Unitek Learning is committed to equipping healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in today’s healthcare landscape. Their collaboration with hospitals and health systems through Unitek Workforce Solutions emphasizes the importance of building robust pathways for aspiring healthcare workers, ensuring sustained workforce strength in the years to come.

About Carson Tahoe Health

Founded in 1949, Carson Tahoe Health is an independent, community-focused healthcare provider serving the Quad County region of Northern Nevada. What began as a single hospital has evolved into a fully integrated healthcare system with a variety of services, including urgent care centers and specialized cancer care through its Cancer Center affiliated with the Huntsman Cancer Institute. The organization is recognized for its commitment to innovation and for being one of the leading places to work in healthcare.

The new programs rolled out by Unitek Learning signify a critical partnership aimed at enhancing the skills and qualifications of healthcare professionals, ultimately improving the quality of patient care in the region.