Movin’ on Up: innovative program helps Banner employees grow and improves patient care

11/26/2024

To address health care workforce shortages and help employees thrive in their careers and lives, Banner’s Career Pathways program offers employees the steps, tools, and financial support to move into vitally important bedside roles. The program launched in 2022 thanks to a $1.2 million grant from Maricopa County’s Employer Services Initiative and since theand since then, has enabled employees in areas such as environmental services, culinary services, and patient transport to attain the education and training necessary to advance into progressively responsible careers within Banner Health.

During the initial rollout, pathways were offered for employees to become Certified Sterile Processing Technicians, Surgical Technologists, Radiology Technologists, and Certified Nursing Assistants, with 15 seats available. Building on that success, since then, hundreds of Banner employees have applied for and participated in the program, with the greatest interest being in Radiology Technologist careers. Targeted outreach efforts such as lunch-and-learns, team member presentations, and targeted communications have helped to educate employees about the opportunity and encourage applications. Financial incentives are instrumental in boosting retention and reducing vacancy rates across critical positions.

One employee who is a Career Pathways success story is Sherry Hession, who previously worked in environmental services at Banner Boswell Medical Center. She applied and was accepted to the program in December 2023 on the path to becoming a Medical Assistant. After completing her education, she started in her new position in October 2024. “It was a little challenging to work and go to school but with all the support from family, my work family, friends and the Career Pathways team, I had the support I needed to keep fulfilling this dream,” says Hession.

“People are at the center of all we do and by investing in our team members’ futures, Banner will continue to be a great place to work.” said Julie Ann Alvarado-Dubek, Banner Health’s Chief HR Officer. “Our Career Pathways program provides a meaningful journey where our team members can achieve their aspirations while optimizing our workforce.”

“Promoting underemployed workers to higher paying jobs within the organization supported improvements in employee retention and opened up entry-level positions for new workers, contributing to a stronger economy and quality health care for all Maricopa County residents,” says Tina Luke, Program Manager of Maricopa County’s Human Services Department’s Workforce Development Division. “We are proud to have partnered with Banner on this innovative and successful initiative!”