Meet Our Third Round of YES Participants—Program Applications Due March 29!
We are accepting applications for the fourth round of our innovative YES (Your Efforts, Supported) program.
If you or someone you know is interested in applying, complete the application packet on the How to Apply to YES! page on the YES hub by 11:59 p.m., Sunday, March 29.
Participants in our third cycle of YES began their journey in the program and to their new career this fall. Check out pictures from their orientation reception and hear what some of our participants had to say about being selected for the innovative program. Family, friends and their leaders came to support and celebrate with the participants. Refer to the FAQs below to learn more about YES, its benefits and your eligibility to apply.
“Being a single parent, it's been hard to even think about going back to school. This program gives me full-time pay and opportunity to get my education--and do better for me and my 8-year-old daughter.” – YES Participant Ariel McMaster, healthcare administrative assistant, pursuing RN degree
“Learning about the details of this program just blew my mind. It's definitely life changing. Balancing a full-time job and being in the nursing program seemed insurmountable. Being able to go to school and still hold on to the benefits of my job feels much more attainable.” – YES Participant Zechriah Kaninski, patient care technician, pursuing RN degree
“I found out that I got into this program when my son graduated. I was excited, shocked, and very thankful. These two people (her parents) taught me discipline and patience. Now that my last baby has finished school, it's time to pursue my own education. I'm most excited about getting my RN degree so I can make more of a difference." – YES Participant Sherena Claxton (pictured with her son and parents), patient care technician, pursuing RN degree
What Is YES?
YES helps participants learn, earn additional certifications and further their education to meet career goals—all while helping us fill important positions within our organization.
Ultimately, the program can help you move into higher paying roles that improve your financial well-being.
How Does YES Work?
If you are an entry-level employee and the degrees and certifications available through YES interest you, apply!
If you are accepted into the program, you will have the opportunity to shadow a professional in your chosen role to make sure it’s a good fit for you.
After selecting your desired role, you will collaborate with Natasha Saunders, senior education consultant and YES program navigator, to determine a customized path within the program. While you work towards earning the degree or required certification for your new role, you will be assigned a reduced workload at Carilion.
Upon completion, you will embark on your new career journey at Carilion!
Advice From Our Participants
- “Be consistent, push yourself and ask lots of questions.” – Sherena Claxton
- “It’s always worth the risk.” – Ariel McMaster
- “There aren’t drawbacks to doing this. It can only help you.” – Zechariah Kaninski
Is YES for You?
Entry-level employees from any Carilion facility can apply for the spring 2026 cycle. To find out if you are eligible to apply, complete this eligibility form.
“This program gives us an opportunity to live our values by providing opportunities to uplift our own people and help them reach their aspirations," says Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Paul Hudgins. “This is a unique program because it removes the obstacles that get in the way of reaching our goals while helping Carilion staff needed roles to fulfill our mission. Of all the things I do in HR, this touches me at my core.”
For more information about YES, including program criteria and how to apply to YES, visit the YES hub.
