Asheville, N.C. — Eleven graduates recently completed Mission Health's Medical Assistant training program, marking another milestone in the organization's effort to strengthen the healthcare workforce in Western North Carolina. Nine graduates chose to continue their careers within the Mission Health system, accepting positions at practices and facilities throughout the region. They include Shannonne Jimenez at Mission Infectious Disease Associates; Noah Hernandez and Kiley Watson at Asheville Cardiology Associates; Raquel Kelly at Mission Hospital; Madison Walker at Mission My Care Now — Biltmore Park, Mission Health's walk-in primary care practice; Josh Donohue at Vista Family Medicine; Jayby Pedroza-Pichardo at Asheville Family Medicine; Emily Carter at Mission Spine Center; and Lauren Nagle at Pisgah Surgical Associates.
The Medical Assistant Program was created to address one of the biggest barriers facing individuals interested in healthcare careers: the challenge of balancing education, work and financial responsibilities. Unlike traditional medical assistant programs that can take years to complete and often require students to pay tuition while reducing work hours, Mission's 12-week program hires participants as employees from day one. Apprentices earn a paycheck while receiving classroom instruction, hands-on clinical training and mentorship from experienced healthcare professionals.
The program is part of Mission Health's broader workforce development strategy aimed at helping address healthcare staffing. By removing financial barriers and creating a direct pathway into healthcare careers, the program helps attract individuals who may not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue clinical training. Participants gain real-world experience in physician practices while developing the skills needed to succeed in patient care settings.
Throughout the program, apprentices spend time both in the classroom and in clinical environments, learning alongside physicians, medical assistants and other caregivers. The accelerated model combines education with practical experience, allowing graduates to enter the workforce quickly while maintaining rigorous training standards. Many participants view the program as the first step in a long-term healthcare career, with opportunities to continue their education through Mission’s tuition assistance and additional professional development programs.
As Mission Health continues to expand workforce development initiatives, programs like the Medical Assistant Program are helping create a pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals who can serve the growing needs of Western North Carolina. For the newest graduates, the program represents not only a career opportunity, but a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients throughout the region. Apply for the program.