Consider a career in health care and explore all the possibilities at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital. More than 1,200 associates comprise clinical and nonclinical teams serving our community hospital. Those who live and work in the community enjoy a short commute to work. Best of all, are the benefits of being a MedStar associate. One of the largest employers in the county, MedStar St. Mary’s offers many career opportunities, including:
- Clinical dietitian
- Physical therapist
- Radiology technician
- Registered nurse
- Nursing technician
- OR Surgical technician
- Certified tumor registrar
- Physician assistant
- Nutrition aide
- Environmental services aid
- Security guard
When Gina Steele, BSN, RN, began working part-time in Perioperative Services as a central sterile processing technician in 1985, her primary goal was to work full-time. So when she came across an opening for a surgical technician, she decided to apply for the job.
“I loved it in the operating room (OR),” said Gina, “and so I was thrilled when they agreed to provide on-the-job training.” Feeling fortunate to have had the opportunity to get her certification to become a surgical technician, she realized she wanted to achieve more and become a first assistant in the OR. To do that, she knew she needed a nursing degree. So Gina gathered her transcripts and began classes at the College of Southern Maryland. “The hospital supported me with financial assistance and also by shifting my hours so that I could fulfill my education requirements while I worked.”
As a registered nurse, Gina continued to grow her professional career. She eventually became director of Perioperative Services, earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland along the way with a full hospital scholarship. Currently, she is working on her master’s degree and receiving financial support through a hospital grant funding program offered to nursing associates.\
“MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital is committed to the growth and development of registered nurses and all associates, and we offer educational assistance and other types of support to associates who are looking to advance their education and professional goals,” said Pam Barnard, MSN, RN-BC, CNML, PHR, SHRM-CP, assistant director of Organizational Learning & Research.
“It’s very important for nurses to pursue their bachelor’s degree early on if you can,” encourages Gina. “It will make you aware of the big picture of nursing and why we strive to have best performance.” As far as financial support, Gina says, “It may take some work to find what’s available and go for it, but I think if you have goals and take the time to pursue them, the hospital will support you.”
To apply for a position in health care and start building a rewarding career, visit MedStarStMarys.org/Careers or call Human Resources at 301-475-6018.