In the late 1990s, two local teenagers got jobs in Nutrition Services at Thompson Hospital. Today, both are well-respected leaders within the health system.
Vice President of Associate Services Jennifer DeVault said the two are among many associates who joined Thompson and, with support from the health system, ultimately achieved their career goals.
With a tight job market throughout the region, Thompson is highlighting the stories of some of these associates. The hope is that job seekers will consider building their own careers within the health system, which has openings in both clinical and non-clinical positions.
“There are so many possibilities here,” DeVault said, “and an environment focused on promoting and celebrating growth.”
Having received their associate’s degrees from Finger Lakes Community College, Shannon McCown and her husband Aidan both knew they wanted careers in health care, so while still in their 20s, they got jobs in Thompson’s Environmental Services Department. It was a way to get their feet in the door, and nearly 15 years later, it has proven to have been a solid plan.
Today, Aidan – who received some tuition reimbursement from Thompson while attending Keuka College – works as an occupational therapist in the health system’s skilled-nursing facility. Shannon is a clinical quality data specialist, using knowledge obtained through her bachelor’s degree from Nazareth College and the experience gained while working in Thompson’s Credentials and Medical Staff Office.
Shannon can look around at several people she started with at Thompson and see others who had entry-level positions and grew their careers to the point where they are now in leadership roles.
“I think it’s pretty cool,” she said.
Khristeen Sproul, who started with Thompson several years before the McCowns, began her career right out of high school, working as a certified nursing assistant in the skilled-nursing facility. Having played many roles within the health system over the years, she said Thompson has been one of her biggest supporters. Thanks to mentors, tuition support and more, she is well on her way toward reaching her next goal of becoming a nurse practitioner.
“Thompson is amazing,” she said. “The family atmosphere is a huge reason I stay, and the ability to grow. Whether it’s mentorship, education or promotion, that’s huge.”
Kim Berry is one of the teens who started in Nutrition Services in the late 1990s. She is now the admissions coordinator for the 178-bed skilled-nursing facility, while her high school friend is the director of Hospital Medicine, Advanced Surgical Services, Gastroenterology and Obstetrics/Gynecology for the health system.
Thompson was recently named by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare and according to Berry, one reason is that it’s a great place to grow a career. “Just get your foot in the door and you can work your way up,” she said.
For the full profiles of McCown, Sproul, Berry and other associates who have advanced within Thompson, visit www.ThompsonHealth.com/Build. To find information about benefits, corporate culture and current openings visit ThompsonHealth.com/Careers