Aurora Health Center Improving Workforce Development

• Purpose of the Project:
  • Improve quality of care
  • Attract and retain qualified workforce
  • Reduce operational expenses
• Key Objectives:
  • Increase staff proficiency and competency
  • Improve retention rates among clerical staff
  • Expand recruitment strategies, focusing on diversity and inclusion

As I reflect on my capstone project experience, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired throughout my academic journey to real-world challenges. Working with Advocate Aurora Health Center allowed me to engage deeply with critical workforce development issues in healthcare, a field I am passionate about.

Through this project, I had the chance to not only identify and analyze the root causes of turnover and skill gaps but also to develop practical solutions, such as revising training programs, implementing mentorship initiatives, and refining recruitment strategies. The collaborative nature of this project, along with the invaluable mentorship from my site supervisor, Jeremy Vail, provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how workforce development can directly influence both employee satisfaction and the overall quality of patient care.

What made this capstone especially impactful was the hands-on experience in addressing real challenges faced by healthcare organizations. It pushed me to think critically and creatively, while also highlighting the importance of data-driven decision-making and continual improvement. The project also emphasized the value of diversity, inclusion, and employee retention—issues that are critical to the long-term success of healthcare organizations.

This experience has strengthened my professional confidence and solidified my desire to continue working in healthcare management. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute further to the field and bring the lessons learned from this project to future endeavors.

Overall, my capstone experience has been a transformative and enriching journey, equipping me with both the knowledge and practical skills to make meaningful contributions to healthcare organizations.