ELKINS, W.Va. — Davis Medical Center (DMC) is rolling out a new on-the-job-learning program, The Academy, specifically targeting high school graduates who are undecided about a career path or whether they are going to attend college in the fall.

The Academy provides paid, job-related education and coaching to create workers fully competent to perform various functions of healthcare careers.  During the 10-month program, workers cycle through the following DMC departments: Pharmacy, Patient Registration, Surgical Services, Medical Lab, Nursing, and Information Technology. Each department has a designated mentor to ensure performance competencies are successfully completed.

Upon completion of The Academy, all participants will have achieved Certified Nursing Assistant designation, and CPR and First Aid certification.  Additionally, they will be positioned to apply for full-time employment at Davis Health System, or continue a healthcare career path at a college or trade school.

“The Academy supports student ambition while helping the health system meet future employment needs,” said Vance Jackson, FACHE, CEO of Davis Health System. “We are creating exposure to the many career options in healthcare through a paid learning engagement.”

High school seniors interested in applying for one of the limited Academy seats, should visit the website, https://www.dhsacademy.com/. They can also contact Academy Coordinator Dulane Casto, RN for more information at 637.3523 or email casto.dulane@davishealthsystem.org.

Enrollment in the program is limited and the application deadline is May 17. 

Dulane Casto, RN, who leads the Academy has been a registered nurse for 26 years with experience in hospital, nursing home, and community settings, as well as in nursing education.

 “The Academy supports the development of the healthcare worker to reflect the changing needs of the industry.  Our mentors will nurture hands-on experience so that participants see the vast array of careers in the hospital and medical field,” said Casto, RN.

Applications will be accepted up to May 21, 2021.  Students can apply online at dhsacademy.com. The program will begin in June of 2021, and students must meet the following recruitments: 

• Student must have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. GPA’s reported as a percentage will be calculated according to assigned letter grades. 

• Submission of the following by deadline. Application, Student Essay, 3 Reference Letters, and additional supporting documentation must be uploaded to the website no later than midnight the date of the deadline to be considered for a spot in DHS The Academy. 

• 18 years of age by June 30, 2021.