Program Coordinator, Access to Practical Nursing

Position Summary

North Island College (NIC) invites applications from qualified candidates to serve as Program Coordinator for the Access to Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Reporting to the Dean of Health & Human Services programs or designate, the Access to Practical Nursing (APN) Program Coordinator supports one-time APN programing at the Port Alberni campus. The APN Coordinator provides educational leadership in support of students and faculty, including diploma, pathway, and contract programming.
The APN Program Coordinator is accountable for supporting instructional faculty with the delivery of high-quality programming. They will also support the development of new programming and the ongoing review of full-time and part-time programs, while ensuring programs are relevant to the needs of students, industry, and the community at large, as aligned with regional economic development plans and NIC’s BUILD 2026 strategic plan.
The advancement of programming involves: researching and assessing labor market needs; conducting community and program-based needs assessment; where relevant collaborating with decanal and service departments; preparing relevant proposals; establishing curriculum development plans; where opportunities arise, developing student research activities; monitoring practicum-based data generation; preparing relevant reports, and participating with associated committees. The APN Program Coordinator will actively support enhanced strategic recruitment and retention initiatives, promote student transition to employment opportunities, and will actively advance work-integrated learning across trades and technical programs.

The Program Coordinator plays a vital behind‑the‑scenes role in supporting effective and responsive program delivery. In this role, the Program Coordinator works collaboratively with key partners and community members to ensure programming is aligned with institutional values and reflects local priorities, cultural protocols, and diverse ways of knowing. Responsibilities include supporting instructors, strengthening communication and coordination, and fostering relationships grounded in trust, respect, and cultural safety. Position Competencies - Creates a Positive Climate and Culture;
- Effective Communication Skills;
- Effectively Develops Goals & Objectives;
- Focuses Effectively on Key Results and Priorities;
- Demonstrates a Focus on Continuous Improvement;
- Interpersonal Effectiveness. Duties & Responsibilities Coordination of Decanal Operations

• In collaboration with the office of the Dean, Associate Dean, faculty, and industry-based subject matter experts, actively support program development, delivery, and innovation, including institutional and community-based initiatives, and the advancement of funding proposals/applications, and related reporting.
• Support faculty and, when requested, act as a liaison with the Office of the Dean.
• Collaborate with the Office of the Dean and the Office of Teaching and Learning to initiate and conduct program reviews according to College Policy.
• Facilitate regular meetings to ensure faculty are apprised of programming and regional developments.
• In coordination with the Department Chair(s), the HCA coordinator will collaborate with the Office of the Dean to support program/course articulation and external industry-based accreditation processes.
• In coordination with the Department Chair(s), the HCA coordinator will advise on and apply policies of the College to faculty and students as required. Review draft policy as needed. Communicate issues of concern regarding policies to the dean or appropriate committee.
• Support enrolment management and liaise with industry and Student Services as appropriate to ensure enrolments are maximized and support the ongoing review and advancement of marketing and recruitment strategies.
• Actively engage with relevant College committees.
• In collaboration with the Office of the Dean and recruitment, participate in recruitment and promotional activities.
• Monitor training needs, industry, and employment trends, specific to health and human services.
• Supporting the onboarding and orientation of faculty in concert with the Dean’s Office and the Department Chair.
• Developing and facilitating new student orientation to institution and program.
• Reviewing program commencement and first year implementation.
• Establishing meaningful connections with student advisors to better support the students academic and personal success.
• Maintaining effective communication with interested parties, including faculty, staff, and external partners, to foster collaboration and promote program success.
• Collaborating with high school recruiters and marketing professionals to increase program visibility and attract prospective students.
• Ensuring Indigenous-led learning is a key component of the program by working closely with an Elder in Resident and actively recruiting and supporting Indigenous learners.
• Providing support to students experiencing challenges and promoting their well-being.
• And any other associated responsibilities that may evolve in the year as determined by the Dean and/or Associate Dean.

Students Support

• May support student (and/or parent/guardian) inquiries while liaising with faculty.
• May support students in consultation with student services and practice regarding student support resources, work transition, and employment success.
• May be required, to respond to any student or academic inquiries associated with policy and programs.

Leadership and Planning

• Work with Department Chair(s), faculty, and department advisory committees to develop mid and long-range program goals and tactical plans to be reviewed and updated on a continuous basis.
• Encourage and support the professional development of faculty to maintain currency in their field, educational theory, and practice. Provide exposure to faculty regarding new developments in 21st century education.
• May advise on program scheduling that best supports student success.

Curriculum Development and Revision

• Support faculty to maintain, revise, and/or develop and expand educational experiences that appropriately meet the needs of learners, practice, and the various agencies or institutions to which the College is accountable to and/or liaises.

Communication

• Liaise with Department Chairs on programming and common instructional considerations.
• Liaise with department members and students regarding matters arising from College committees, when appropriate.

Required Education & Experience

• Master’s degree in a relevant field of Health program areas and specific to the department’s faculty qualifications.
• Minimum of three years demonstrated experience in post-secondary education, and instruction.
• Experience in program development, project management, student recruitment, and retention.
• Experience engaging and collaborating with practice partners and employers to advance programming and student success initiatives.
• Experience with community-based programming supporting Indigenous learners, under-represented learners, inclusive of women and LGBTQIA learners, and experience supporting intercultural initiatives.
• Knowledge of and experience using diverse student-centred resources for employment and work search success.
• Knowledge of North Island College policies, procedure and systems

Required Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• Demonstrated leadership skills including the ability to independently and collaboratively lead projects, produce reports, communicate updates and changes, and meet timely deliverables in a self-directed manner.
• Demonstrated ability to work under tight timelines while managing a professional rapport with colleagues, industry, and students.
• Demonstrated experience with the design and development of high-quality student learning experiences, integrating learning technologies, applied and blended programming.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experienced in formalizing work-integrated learning opportunities in the best interest of students.
• Experienced with student-centred research initiatives.
• Demonstrated marketing and public relations skills.
• Ability to work both independently, within and across teams; demonstrated ability to reason analytically and problem-solve independently.
• Demonstrated progressive planning and organizational skills, excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and conflict resolution skills.
• Proficiency in in the use of computer applications, the internet, and with MS Office software applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, experience with database management, and demonstrated experience using a learning management system (i.e. D2L Brightspace).
• Able to foster a collegial and positive work environment.
• Proven collaborative skills in support of program development and change management activities.
• Able to create a positive climate and culture of learning.
• Demonstrated respect and commitment to continuous improvement.
• Familiar with contract training models and proven ability to innovate.
• Demonstrated work ethic and committed to being accountable for the tasks affiliated with the instructional leadership position.
• Valid BC driver’s license and flexibility to travel between campuses and adjust work hours as required.