Sometimes, a single moment can change your life. For Marcus Chiang, that moment came while working as a Safety & Security Manager in a Community Treatment Facility (CTF) and Transitional Care Facility (TCF). One day, he witnessed a nurse providing exceptional care and compassion to residents. Her ability to positively impact lives sparked something in him.
“I realised that I, too, could contribute to making people’s lives better,” Marcus recalls. And so began his journey into healthcare.
A Fresh Start
When Marcus’s employment ended in April 2023, he took the leap. After learning about Workforce Singapore’s Career Conversion Programme (CCP) for Enrolled Nurses, he began by completing the Workplace Literacy and Numeracy (WPLN) assessment. While awaiting the results, he enrolled in the four-month full-time (SCTP) WSQ Higher Certificate in Healthcare (Therapy Support) course at HMI Institute.
“This course let me learn more about healthcare and improve my communication skills,” Marcus shares. Lifelong learning has always been a priority for Marcus, and the experience proved to be invaluable both professionally and personally.
Applying New Skills
Just a week after completing the course, Marcus returned to his previous workplace as a healthcare assistant. The skills he gained during the programme enabled him to hit the ground running. “I could immediately apply what I had learned,” he says.
Now pursuing a three-year Higher Nitec in Nursing, Marcus has already achieved commendable grades. “If I keep up my grades, I might qualify for a two-year accelerated programme” he shares excitedly.
Lessons in Camaraderie and Growth
One of Marcus’s most cherished memories from his time at HMI Institute was the camaraderie he shared with his course mates. “We came from all walks of life, but we supported each other every step of the way,” he says. Along with the support of his peers, Marcus credits the excellent trainers for making his journey both enjoyable and enriching.
“I want to give a huge shout-out to all my trainers and course mates who made this experience so rewarding,” Marcus adds.
Marcus’s Advice: Take the Leap
Reflecting on his journey, Marcus has a message for anyone thinking about pursuing a mid-career shift into healthcare.
“If you have the compassion, go for it! Coming back to study can be challenging, especially for someone like me who dropped out of school early and spent years in the workforce. But nothing stopped me from pursuing my dreams,” he says.
From therapy support trainee to mid-career nursing student, Marcus is on his way to becoming an enrolled nurse, with hopes of eventually becoming a registered nurse and making a real impact on people’s lives.
“If you don’t try, you will never know what you’re capable of achieving,” Marcus says.
Start Your Journey Today
Marcus’s story shows the potential for growth and fulfilment in healthcare. If you’re considering a career change, now is the time to explore the possibilities with HMI Institute.
The healthcare sector offers job stability and meaningful opportunities. HMI Institute’s Train-and-Place Programme supports individuals like Marcus in transitioning to healthcare roles. With industry-relevant training, hybrid learning options, and financial assistance through SkillsFuture Singapore, you can take the first step towards a fulfilling career.
- Up to 90% course fee subsidies available for Singaporeans, Singapore PR and LTVP+ holders
- $4,000 SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) top-up for individuals aged 40 and above.
- Experience practical learning through classroom sessions, labs, and live simulations.
- Receive job placement support to kickstart your career.
Learn more about how HMI Institute can help you achieve your career goals.
Your journey to a meaningful career starts today.
