BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW) — Bucyrus City Schools educators recently participated in a True North professional development day centered on the growing career opportunities within the healthcare industry.

The event, held in collaboration with Avita Health System and the Crawford Partnership, showcased how local collaboration is preparing students for in-demand, high-wage healthcare careers. The day began with keynote presentations from leaders representing each partner organization. Speakers highlighted the regional need for skilled healthcare workers and the diverse pathways available to students interested in both clinical and non-clinical roles.

Following the keynote sessions, Bucyrus educators explored Avita’s programs for high school students, designed to help them gain early exposure to clinical environments, connect with mentors, and explore healthcare as a profession.

Participants also rotated through a series of interactive Hub Stations, where they experienced hands-on learning in a range of healthcare departments, including:

  • Emergency Department and a Mass Casualty Triage Simulation
  • Biomedical Equipment and Technology
  • Radiology and Plant Operations
  • Environmental Services
  • Supply Chain and Logistics

These sessions underscored the vast career opportunities available to students—both clinical and non-clinical—across the healthcare industry.

Educators later toured the Avita Logistical Center, observing how operational systems support patient care behind the scenes.

The day concluded with tours of Avita Bucyrus Hospital and Avita Galion Hospital, giving participants a firsthand look at modern healthcare environments within their own community.

Connecting Education and Workforce Development

Makenna Laser, executive director of the Crawford Partnership for Education and Economic Development, emphasized the importance of this collaboration.

“Healthcare continues to be a cornerstone of our local economy—careers that are not only stable and well-compensated but also deeply meaningful,” Laser said.

Jessica Geyer, director of recruitment and engagement at Avita Health System, emphasized the critical role of educational partnerships in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.

“Healthcare is evolving rapidly, and the career opportunities are more diverse than ever,” Geyer said. “By collaborating with educators, we’re helping students discover that healthcare extends far beyond traditional clinical roles. Every department—from medical records and information technology to plant operations and environmental services—contributes to patient care. When students can see themselves in these roles, we’re not just filling jobs; we’re investing in the strength and resilience of our community.”

Geyer highlighted the importance of early exposure through initiatives like the Future Nurses of Avita program, which prepares high school juniors and seniors for careers as patient care assistants. She also pointed to other entry-level pathways such as medical assistant and phlebotomist roles, which offer accessible starting points for students interested in healthcare.

Beyond direct patient care, Geyer noted that careers in marketing, accounting, supply chain, and IT are essential to the success of a healthcare system.

“Whether a student is drawn to clinical care or behind-the-scenes operations, there’s a place for them in healthcare,” she added. “Our goal is to help them find it.”

Educator Reflections

Terra Hamm, a high school teacher at Bucyrus City Schools, shared how impactful the experience was.

“This was such an eye-opening and insightful experience,” she said. “It’s incredible to see how many career possibilities exist within healthcare—right here in our community. I’m excited to bring this back to our students and help them connect their interests to real, rewarding futures.”

A Community-Focused Partnership

Bob Britton, superintendent of Bucyrus City Schools, praised the collaborative spirit that defines the vision of True North in navigating students to career success.

“Our community partnerships are what make True North so powerful,” Britton said. “When local businesses and educators come together with a shared vision, we’re able to show students that opportunity exists right here at home. These experiences give our students direction, purpose, and pride in the community they call their own.”

Looking Ahead

This healthcare-focused professional development day was the second session in the True North Teacher Professional Development series. The first session, held in August 2025, highlighted manufacturing and technology careers through partnerships with local industry leaders.

The next True North Teacher Professional Development Day will be held on Feb. 13, 2026, in partnership with The Ohio State University at Marion. This session will focus on career pathways in liberal arts and general business, continuing the district’s commitment to connecting education with real-world opportunities across a range of professions.