Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharee’ Ford
Hi Sharee’, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
During the COVID pandemic, many people were being laid off, and it became clear that the nursing field was not only in high demand but also one of the most secure career options. Recognizing the need for flexible education, I created Gifted Hands Nursing Institute to provide accessible online education for those looking for a stable, need-based career. This institute was built with the goal of offering flexible learning options to those who needed them most, ensuring that even during uncertain times, people could pursue a reliable path in the medical field.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Getting the online CNA program approved was a major challenge. At the time, online nursing schools didn’t exist, so I had to go back and forth with the State of California Department of Health for 8 months before finally getting the course approved. It was a long process, but ultimately worth it to provide accessible education.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Gifted Hands Nursing Institute is dedicated to providing flexible, online education in the field of nursing, specifically through our 34-day online Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. We specialize in delivering a structured program that ensures students are fully prepared for both classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience. Our course isn’t “learn at your own pace,” but rather provides a well-organized schedule with classes in the mornings/evenings and clinical practice on the weekends, making it ideal for those with busy lives or other commitments.
What sets us apart is that we were one of the first to offer an online CNA course, especially at a time when nursing schools weren’t available in a virtual format. We are proud of our resilience and the fact that we were able to push through regulatory hurdles to make this program available to a broader audience. Our mission has always been to make nursing education more accessible, especially to those who need a flexible yet comprehensive learning environment.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of our ability to adapt during difficult times and our commitment to helping individuals build secure, rewarding careers in the medical field. Our readers should know that Gifted Hands is here to provide them with a supportive, high-quality path into nursing, where they can expect both flexibility and a solid educational foundation to thrive in the healthcare industry.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My success and the success of Gifted Hands Nursing Institute wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support from several key groups. First and foremost, my students—they are the reason this program exists, and their dedication and hard work drive me to continue improving and expanding our offerings.
My staff has also been instrumental in making this vision a reality. Their commitment to delivering quality education and support to our students has been invaluable.
Finally, our partnerships with different organizations have played a crucial role in helping us grow and reach more individuals. These collaborations have opened up opportunities and provided resources that have made a significant difference in our ability to deliver top-tier nursing education.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.giftedhandscna.com
- Instagram: @giftedhandsnursinginstitute
- Facebook: @giftedhandsnursinginstitute
