Empowering Career Paths Through the Trinity Nursing Assistant Program at MercyOne North Iowa

Iowa is currently facing a critical nursing shortage. As of recent data, nearly 4,500 nursing positions were unfilled, a number four times higher than any other field. Additionally, it can regularly take over three months to fill open nursing positions. This shortage is particularly pronounced in rural areas, where the demand for qualified nursing professionals often exceeds supply. 

To help create pathways for careers in health care, Trinity Health developed the Trinity Nursing Assistant Program (TNAP), offering an accessible path to becoming a nursing assistant, regardless of prior experience. Open to individuals as young as 16, the program welcomes those new to the workforce and even those transitioning from non-patient-facing roles, such as in security or environmental services. This flexibility has enabled many from Northern Iowa and Southern Minnesota to explore health care careers at MercyOne North Iowa without relocating or incurring significant educational expenses.

The program accepts up to 12 participants monthly, combining online courses, in-person skills training, and shadowing opportunities. Over a week, participants acquire foundational health care skills, followed by completing nursing orientation and a final exam. Most students successfully finish the program requirements and transition into nursing assistant roles at MercyOne North Iowa, providing assistance to experienced nurses offering direct patient care.

MercyOne North Iowa Staff Development Coordinator, Melissa TeKippe, highlights the program’s impact, saying, "TNAP is not just about filling workforce gaps—it’s about creating opportunities. By providing accessible training and career pathways, we’re empowering individuals to step into meaningful roles in health care while strengthening the future of patient care in North Iowa." 

Since the Trinity Nursing Assistant Program (TNAP) was established, it has significantly impacted the health care workforce. MercyOne North Iowa introduced the program in November 2023, and since then, it has become a vital gateway to local health care careers, especially for those eager to contribute to patient care. With 47 individuals completing the program to date in Northern Iowa, TNAP continues to open doors to a rewarding career in health care.

Participants start as nursing assistants at MercyOne North Iowa while also having a clear path for advancement, including options to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and pursue further education in nursing or other health care fields. Hands-on experience through TNAP is invaluable for those aiming to attend nursing school or fill other clinical roles. 

The MercyOne North Iowa Foundation plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of TNAP participants by addressing financial barriers that can often prevent individuals from pursuing careers in health care. Through philanthropic support, the Foundation helps alleviate some of the initial costs that come with entering the health care field, ensuring that participants have the necessary tools to begin their training without the added stress of financial hardship. This generosity enables participants to focus on their education, skill development, and career progression. Furthermore, upon completing TNAP and transitioning into nursing assistant roles, participants benefit from flexible scheduling options, allowing them to maintain a healthy work-life balance while advancing in their health care careers. 

To learn more about TNAP in Mason City and apply, visit: Patient Care Tech- In Training (Open) job in Mason City, Iowa, 50401 | Nursing Support jobs at Trinity Health. 

To support TNAP and all of MercyOne North Iowa’s local health care priorities and initiatives, give to the North Iowa Greatest Need fund: MercyOne North Iowa Foundation Giving - MercyOne North Iowa Foundation.