From CNA to Health Care Leader: Ian’s Inspiring Career Journey

Follow your passion for a career in healthcare and make a difference.

Sometimes, life takes us on unexpected journeys, leading to opportunities we never imagined. For Ian, Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) and online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) graduate, a career in health care wasn’t something that was in his future plans. Ian was set on studying engineering, but after experiencing a personal loss, his path changed. After becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) then an OTA, Ian turned that passion into a thriving career in health care administration. Here’s how Pima Medical helped Ian find his purpose and build a future he’s truly proud of.

“My journey into health care wasn’t planned. During my senior year of high school, I was preparing to study engineering when my dad passed away. It was a tough time, and I decided to take a break. My mom, a nurse, suggested I become a CNA, so I completed an accelerated program and started working at Silver Hills Health Care Center in Las Vegas. I never imagined a career in long-term care, but I excelled as a CNA and was promoted to rehab aide. One day my regional director, who saw potential in me, signed me up for an informational seminar at Pima Medical Institute for the OTA program. I attended, was intrigued and decided to enroll.

Balancing school and work wasn’t easy, but Pima Medical made it possible. I worked flexible hours, attended classes and studied late into the evenings. The instructors were experienced, and the small class sizes made learning enjoyable. When I took the national licensing exam, I achieved one of the highest scores my instructor had ever seen. After working in the field, I wanted to grow my career even more, so I enrolled in Pima Medical’s online BSHCA program. Today, I’m an Assistant Administrator at Alta Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, finishing my Administrator in Training program. Soon, I’ll sit for the licensing exam to become a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, and my ultimate goal is to own a skilled nursing facility.

Pima Medical gave me the tools and confidence to succeed. Their programs may cost a bit more, but they are efficient and effective with no prerequisites.”

Take your passion for helping others and turn it into a rewarding career like Ian. Get started toward your future at Pima Medical today! Classes enrolling now.

February 21, 2025

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