Mason Health Invests in the Future: Scholarships and Career Pathways Abound
Mason Health is deeply committed to fostering career development and providing ample growth opportunities for both current and prospective employees. Recognizing the crucial role of healthcare professionals in the community, Mason Health is actively investing in the next generation of nurses and other healthcare workers through a variety of comprehensive programs and financial aid opportunities. Among these initiatives is the prestigious Health Sciences Academy Scholarship, a cornerstone program designed to empower graduating seniors from Shelton High School to pursue their dreams of becoming registered nurses.
The Health Sciences Academy Scholarship represents a significant investment in the future of healthcare in the region. Open to graduating seniors who have diligently pursued the Health Sciences Academy pathway at Shelton High School, this scholarship provides a unique opportunity for aspiring nurses to have their nursing school tuition and associated expenses fully covered by Mason Health. The application deadline for this year’s scholarship is April 1, 2025, encouraging eligible students to prepare their applications and seize this life-changing opportunity.
This comprehensive scholarship covers a wide array of costs associated with nursing education. Recipients benefit from full funding for tuition fees, essential textbooks, required uniforms, laboratory expenses, simulation fees, and even the application and examination fees associated with obtaining their nursing license. This all-encompassing approach eliminates financial barriers and allows students to focus solely on their studies and professional development.
Beyond financial assistance, the Mason Health Scholarship extends a valuable opportunity for practical experience. Scholarship recipients are offered a position at Mason Health, providing them with hands-on experience during their schooling and the potential for a full-time position after graduation, contingent upon availability. This seamless integration of education and practical application provides a distinct advantage, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and build essential skills under the guidance of experienced healthcare professionals.
This year marks the fourth consecutive year that Mason Health has proudly offered the Health Sciences Academy scholarship, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to investing in the local community and fostering the growth of future healthcare leaders. The District’s dedication extends beyond scholarships, with a strong partnership with Shelton High School that provides students with valuable job shadowing experiences in various healthcare fields.
These job shadowing opportunities offer a firsthand glimpse into the diverse career pathways available within the healthcare sector. Students can explore various roles such as nursing, phlebotomy, administration, finance, and marketing, gaining valuable insights and helping them make informed decisions about their future career paths. This partnership provides invaluable exposure and helps students connect classroom learning with real-world applications.
Mason Health recognizes that career development is a continuous process, and offers a range of pathways to support individuals at all stages of their careers. Employees looking to start their careers, expand their skill sets, or transition to new roles within the organization will find opportunities for growth and advancement. After just 90 days of employment, Mason Health employees become eligible for tuition reimbursement, empowering them to pursue further education and enhance their professional capabilities.
For registered nurses seeking to further refine their skills and knowledge, Mason Health offers comprehensive registered nursing residency options. These residency programs provide structured learning and mentorship opportunities, enabling new graduates to transition smoothly into their roles and develop expertise in their chosen specialties. Similarly, certified nursing assistants can participate in growth programs designed to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
Mason Health also provides a nurse tech pathway for newly registered nurses, allowing them to gain valuable experience and mentorship while working under the guidance of experienced nurses. This pathway provides a supportive environment for new graduates to build their confidence and develop essential skills in a fast-paced healthcare setting.
In partnership with Washington state, Mason Health proudly offers a medical assistant apprenticeship program, providing aspiring medical assistants with the training and support they need to launch successful careers. This one-year program, offered through Mason Clinic, allows students to work while learning, combining classroom instruction with practical experience under the guidance of experienced medical professionals.
The medical assistant apprenticeship program provides a unique opportunity for individuals to gain hands-on experience while earning a paycheck. Upon completion of the program and successful certification, graduates are well-prepared to work at Mason Clinic, provided there is an open position.
Testimonials from current apprentices highlight the transformative impact of the program. Jenelle Beem, an ophthalmic tech at Mason Clinic-Eye Care, shared her enthusiasm for the apprenticeship program. "I decided to participate in the apprenticeship program because of the amazing opportunities it provides," she said. "As a current Mason Clinic employee, I am already comfortable with the environment and know my colleagues and supervisor are reliable and great people to learn from. I am thrilled to be able to work in Pediatrics as I’ve been interested in it since I started working in the medical field. I was nervous to start this year-long journey, but the end result will be rewarding and push me to be the best version of myself.”
Kiely Roath, another medical assistant apprentice working at Mason Clinic-Hoodsport, emphasized the program’s accessibility and support. “I am a single mom, so going the traditional route was not an option for me,” Roath shared. “The program and assistance from Mason Health allowed me to follow my dream and still provide for my daughter. This program was a game-changer for me. I am so excited for this next chapter in my career, and all the future has in store for me here. I couldn’t be happier with my choice to become a medical assistant.”
These stories exemplify the positive impact that Mason Health’s workforce development initiatives have on individuals and the community as a whole. By providing comprehensive training, financial assistance, and mentorship opportunities, Mason Health is empowering individuals to pursue their dreams and build successful careers in the healthcare field.
To apply for the Mason Health Health Sciences Academy Scholarship and learn more about the diverse workforce development opportunities available, interested individuals are encouraged to visit www.masonhealth.com/careers. Additional information about Mason Health’s 2024 Health Sciences Academy scholarship winners can be found at https://issuu.com/mghandfc/docs/mh_scope_2024_sept_web.
A video featuring past scholarship recipient Eryka Delgado-Hernandez describing her experience winning the Health Sciences Academy scholarship and working at Mason Health can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PBukch3stE.
Mason Health’s dedication to workforce development underscores its commitment to providing exceptional healthcare services to the community. By investing in the education and training of future healthcare professionals, Mason Health is ensuring a strong and skilled workforce that will continue to meet the evolving needs of the community for years to come. The Health Sciences Academy Scholarship and other career pathways represent a significant investment in the future, empowering individuals to achieve their professional goals and contribute to the well-being of the community.
