Determined to take the next step, Jayda connected with Sandy, an employment specialist at the Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council (PIC), to explore opportunities to help make her nursing education possible.
Through PIC, Jayda received guidance from her employment specialist and financial assistance through the Drive 4 Five grant funding. These resources helped support her tuition and paid work experience as she continued her nursing education at Minnesota West Community and Technical College. At the time, Jayda was an LPN student with a clear goal of becoming a registered nurse (RN).
While working toward her degree, Jayda balanced school, family life, and caring for her growing family, including a newborn baby. Between late-night study sessions and her responsibilities at home, she remained committed to her goal and never gave up.
“Jayda was also a positive person to work with. She kept moving forward no matter what came her way. She had a baby, kept late-night studying hours, maintained a home, and never gave up,” shared Sandy.
With determination and the right support, Jayda successfully earned her nursing degree and achieved her goal of becoming a registered nurse. Today, she works full-time in the Medical-Surgical Unit at the hospital in Worthington, putting her education and passion for caring for others into practice. She and her husband have also recently purchased a home, marking another exciting milestone in their lives.
Jayda expressed her gratitude for the financial assistance she received, sharing that the support provided her with the opportunity to pursue her goals and build a future for herself and her family.
Her story demonstrates how access to education, financial assistance, and individualized employment support can help individuals overcome barriers, pursue careers in high-demand occupations, and strengthen the local workforce. Through partnerships with Minnesota West Community and Technical College and grant-funded opportunities, PIC continues to help individuals like Jayda turn their career goals into reality while meeting the growing need for skilled healthcare professionals in Southwest Minnesota.