Delta Health System Partners with South Delta Planning and Development District

In an exciting development for healthcare workforce training, Delta Health System has teamed up with Delta Planning & Development District (SDPDD) to launch a specialized Career Coaching Program at The Medical Center. This collaborative initiative is designed to offer healthcare career guidance, skills development, and professional mentorship to individuals seeking to enter or advance in the healthcare field, with a focus on addressing regional workforce shortages and fostering local talent.

The partnership between Delta Health System and South Delta Planning & Development District reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the healthcare sector by preparing a well-equipped workforce. By providing career coaching directly within The Medical Center, the program offers participants unique access to real-world healthcare environments, practical training, and guidance from experienced professionals. The goal is to ensure that both new entrants and current healthcare workers have the skills and support they need to succeed in an evolving healthcare landscape.

The pilot program launched in November with four school districts participating. This includes Leland, Greenville, Hollandale, and Western Line. Currently, twelve students shadow The Medical Center team two days, approximately 4-5 hours, a week. Departments include Laboratory, Nursing, Pharmacy, Radiology, GI Lab, Rehab Unit and The Wellness Center.

“The Pharmacy Department has enjoyed getting to know and hosting the students. They all seem eager and willing to jump in and help with any task with which they can assist. I think it brings a little joy knowing that their work is giving back to the community we all love to serve,” said Jon Michael Diehl, Director of Pharmacy.

“As a Career Coach, it warms my heart to see students embracing the opportunity to shadow and learn more about the career path that they are considering pursuing. Thank you, Delta Health System - The Medical Center for providing these students this great opportunity,” said Traci Sims, Greenville Public School District Career Coach.

The Career Coaching Program is tailored to meet the needs of both aspiring healthcare professionals and those already working in the field who want to enhance their skills or transition into new roles. Through one-on-one coaching sessions, participants receive personalized advice on career paths, training options, and professional development opportunities. The program also provides resources for skills assessment and resume building, along with connections to educational programs and certifications aligned with healthcare career goals. Mississippi, like many other states, has faced challenges with workforce shortages in the healthcare industry, particularly in rural areas. The partnership with the Career Coaching initiative seeks to tackle these shortages by equipping more individuals with the training and credentials necessary to fill critical roles in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities. With a strong focus on recruitment and retention, this program aims to cultivate a sustainable healthcare workforce that can meet the needs of the Delta region.

“Participants in the Career Coaching Program gain more than just practical skills—they also receive invaluable insight into the professional demands of the healthcare industry. By fostering close relationships with mentors and coaches, individuals can develop long-term career strategies that align with their personal goals and the needs of their communities. In turn, local healthcare facilities benefit from a pipeline of trained professionals ready to meet the growing demands of patient care,” said Iris Stacker, Delta Health System Chief Executive Officer. “Delta Health System’s partnership with SDPDD represents an important investment in the future of healthcare in Mississippi. By providing career coaching at The Medical Center, the program empowers individuals to take control of their career trajectories while helping to address the workforce challenges facing the region’s healthcare industry.”

Charles Bell, II, Western Line District career coach, expressed much gratitude for the Delta Health Systems/SDPDD job shadowing collaboration. “Through this mentorship, O'Bannon students Joi Williams and MacKenzie Miller have not only gained knowledge from their Delta Health System experience, but they see the importance of furthering their education and becoming an asset right here in our community. Through the career coaching program students explore college and technical career options that are available to them. I am eager to expose more of my students to DHS who show interest in working in the medical field.”

This initiative not only strengthens the healthcare workforce but also enhances the overall well-being of the communities served by Delta Health System, creating a positive impact that extends beyond the walls of The Medical Center.

According to Kenneth L. Gines, Career Coaching Coordinator, “Career Coaching ls all about getting students ready for a Career, not a job. SDPDD signed on with Accelerate MS to have Career Coaching in twenty-two school districts in the Delta Area. Through Career Coaching we have been able to expose students to careers that they never thought about. Our Career Coaches do field trips to colleges so that students see college life. Students are taken to factories to see how products are made from raw material to the end. They are being exposed to the hospital world in a partnership with Delta Health System. Students are in different departments at Delta Health System and see the day-to-day activities of hospital work. This again is exposing them to all the careers that are at the local hospital. It has been rewarding to hear about the hands-on experience they are having. Through Career Coaching, we are starting early to help students decide their career path. We are not looking for a job, but a career.”

“The students are an absolute delight! Their eyes light up with inquisition at skills that are second nature to us. I love teaching them the science behind our daily tasks and how each department contributes a vital role in treating our patients. As a high school student, I did not know that the laboratory would one day be my home. I enjoy sharing my experience and my journey with the students. The knowledge that we are possibly shaping the minds and future of our youth is very fulfilling,” said Regina Taylor, Director of Laboratory.

Joi Williams and Mackenzie Miller, O’Bannon High School seniors, are mentored on the STRIDES Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit two days a week. Joi commented, “This program captures the reality of working in the department and the staff has us doing real work duties. We interact with the patients and even get to see them in the rehabilitation room doing their exercises. Mackenzie added, “The staff are very nice and treat us like we are family. Everyone is extremely helpful in teaching us to do the tasks, even making the beds.”

This collaborative approach ensures that the Delta region is prepared for the future, supporting both current and future healthcare workers in achieving professional success while improving healthcare access and quality for residents throughout the area. Delta Health System and South Delta Planning and Development District believe in building a culture of excellence right here at home. For more information concerning Delta Health System, contact Kim Dowdy, Community Development Manager, at 662.725.2830.