Organizational example:

Organization/ Program

WorkForce One
Broward Workforce Development Board
Broward County, FL

Program Purpose

To address the area’s shortage of trained RNs

Program Description

WorkForce One, together with Broward Community College designed a program to address the RN shortage. The strategy is comprised of three components:
1.) RN Refresher Program for unemployed RNs interested in returning to work and working RNs who wish to update their skills (this program is also available nationwide through e-learning modules)

• 10 college credits earned
• 16 week program, two times a year
• Training curriculum is computer-based and available 24/7
• After completion of the e-learning modules, students are placed in a paid internship with a hospital partner

2.) LPN – RN Transition Nursing Program for LPNs who want to become RNs

• 10 college credits earned
• Computer based training
• Students who complete program are reimbursed by the hospital for school expenses and are guaranteed employment

3.) Nursing Career Exploration Program to attract high school students

• 9th and 10th graders participate in a summer institute that focuses on career exploration and strengthening basic skills
• 11th and 12th graders are given the additional opportunity to “shadow” a professional in the nursing field
• Interested students who complete the summer institute are guaranteed priority admission into Broward Community College’s nursing or other health science programs

Progress

The enrollment goal for all three components was 550 persons, 150 of which were to be youth. In May 2004, the total enrollment was 593 with 193 youth. 343 LPNs have transitioned to become RNs and at program’s end, the project is expected to graduate more than 80% of its enrolled students. Although the grant ended in June 2005, the ETA did fund a multi-million dollar grant to enable the BCC (in collaboration with the Hospital Corporation of America) to continue similar work.

Contact Information

Dr. Anita DeFoe, VP, Quality Assurance
Broward Workforce Development Board
3800 Inverrary Blvd., Suite 400
Lauderhill, FL 33319
T:954-535-2300 x3127
adefoe@wf1broward.com