Looking for a high-paying job that's in demand? You might consider nursing.
Throughout The Mountain State, from Registered Nurses to LPN's there are plenty
of job openings, with some hospitals even offering signing bonuses.
In West Virginia, 15% of all WV nursing jobs are unfilled. Only California has
a larger shortage with 20 percent.
The jobs pay very well in a state otherwise known for low wages. So why is their
such a shortage?
At least one hospital official said it isn't because people don't want to become
nurses, but rather the lack of nursing schools in this part of West Virginia.
"We do have enough applicants, it's just having enough spaces in nursing
school to handle the numbers," said Shelia Kyle, Director of the St. Mary's
School of Nursing.
Kyle said normally, they get 300 applicants, but can only able to accept 70 students
To help sole that problem this year, St. Mary's added another faculty member so
they could accept 90 applicants.
But for Huntington hosptials, including St. Mary's, 20 more nurses are a drop
in the bucket.
, "As of last spring, we have more vacancies than ever before," said
Margaret Donley, the Director of Nursing at St. Mary's Hospital. "Our vacancies
went well up this year".
Healthcare professionals face another hurdle: Keeping the nurses and doctors that
are already on their staff.
"We're trying to create a place where a nurse can be the nurse she wants
to be and not be rushed and fear for her patient's care," says Donley.
Students looking for high paying jobs have heard the message loud and clear. At
Marshall University, the nursing program has been bombed with more applicants
than ever. But across West Virginia, and the nation, some nursing schools still
have vacancies for fall classes.
Here in Huntington, Mountain State College has expanded its nursing program that
helps LPNs step up the career ladder to become RNs.
And if you live in northern Cabell County, there are two options for you: The
Mason County Career Center in Point Pleasant has an LPN program. Classes are free
during the day. Contact Principal Ruth Caplinger at 304-675-3039 if you'd like
more information. And Marshall's School of Nursing recently started a distance
learning program at their Mid Ohio Valley Center, also in Point Pleasant.