July 2024

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we’re joined by Todd Smith, past podcast host and guest and CEO of Symphony Workforce, and Stacey Ocander, Senior Director of Workforce and Education Initiatives at Nebraska Hospital Association to discuss their collaborative efforts to address the healthcare workforce crisis in Nebraska. Stacey discusses the innovative statewide curriculum she developed for third to fifth graders, which introduces students to various healthcare professions through active learning and partnerships with local hospitals and nursing homes. This program aims to spark early interest in healthcare careers and create a seamless educational pathway from elementary school through undergrad. The curriculum includes practical, hands-on experiences such as doing buckle swabs and examining cells under a microscope, making healthcare professions accessible and engaging for young students. Todd and Stacey further elaborate on their approach to bridging the gap between education and healthcare industries. They emphasize the importance of experiential learning and the role of technology in facilitating this connection. Their partnership has resulted in a comprehensive program that includes summer camps, industry challenges on the Find the Why platform, and a hybrid internship model for high school students. These initiatives not only provide students with relevant certifications and skills but also help them build a digital resume that can be accessed by potential employers. This model aims to ensure that students are well-prepared for healthcare careers, thereby addressing the workforce shortage and promoting economic stability in Nebraska’s rural communities. The episode underscores the significance of early career exploration, continuous support, and scalable solutions in creating a robust healthcare workforce pipeline.