Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) is recognizing the newest graduates of its Nurse Aide I training program, a 140-hour course designed to prepare participants to support nurses in delivering safe, high-quality patient care.

The accelerated program combines classroom instruction, skills lab simulations, and clinical experience to meet North Carolina Board of Nursing standards. Students learn to assist with daily patient needs such as taking vital signs, supporting mobility and providing personal care, while working alongside registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

Graduates from this fall’s program include:

• James Green
• Jason Holland
• Tyler Kemmerling
• Ciao Li
• Chase Mease
• Madeline Medford
• Lauren Reyna

“We are incredibly proud of these graduates and the commitment they have shown to patient care and to our community,” said Sue Shugart, FACHE, CPPS, chief executive officer of Haywood Regional Medical Center. “Programs like this strengthen our care teams, open doors for career growth, and ensure that patients receive the compassionate, hands-on support they deserve.”

The graduates are now eligible to begin their careers as nurse aides at HRMC, where they will play an important role in supporting the nursing staff and enhancing the patient experience.

“Investing in the professional growth of our staff is central to who we are,” said Debra Frizzell, BSN, RN, clinical educator at HRMC. “Our Nurse Aide I Training Program gives participants a strong foundation for a healthcare career and builds the teamwork and confidence that are so important in caring for patients and families.”

The Nurse Aide I Training Program at HRMC offers tuition-free education in exchange for a one-year work commitment at the hospital, hands-on learning in a real-world environment, and the opportunity to learn directly from experienced healthcare professionals.

The next Nurse Aide I cohort is planned for spring 2026. Additional details about applications, class schedules, and eligibility will be shared in the coming months.

To be eligible for the program, prospective students must first be employed at HRMC as a patient care assistant (PCA). Those interested in applying can view open PCA positions at MyHaywoodRegional.com/careers.