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MacKenzie Thompson’s Journey with Hire Local: From CNA Training to Nursing Career in Memphis



08/21/2025


MacKenzie Thompson’s Journey with Hire Local: From CNA Training to Nursing Career in Memphis
MacKenzie Thompson was in class when an announcement changed everything. She instantly felt this was the chance she had been waiting for.

“The school intercom invited students to meet at lunch if we were interested,” she recalled. “I couldn’t wait to rush home and tell my mom. Then, we began praying about it.”

The years that followed weren’t without obstacles—limited spots in the program, self-doubt, and even a car accident tested her resolve. But with her faith and the encouragement of her family, Thompson pressed forward.

“When something is meant for you, it’s already decided,” she said. “There’s no need to worry. What’s yours will find you.”

For Thompson, that “something” was Hire Local, a workforce initiative that links Shelby County residents with education, training, and job opportunities in Memphis’s Medical District.

In 2023, right after finishing high school, she joined Hire Local’s Career Launch Academy. That summer, she began training as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) while working at Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, one of the program’s partners. The academy is designed to create lasting medical careers—students earn while they learn and don’t pay tuition.

The same year Thompson enrolled, the Regions Foundation—a nonprofit supported by Regions Bank—provided its first grant to the program. In April 2025, it renewed its support with a $30,000 award to the Memphis Medical District Collaborative (MMDC), which runs Hire Local.

“Hire Local gives people like MacKenzie the opportunity to enter healthcare with the skills, training, and employment connections they need,” said Marta Mendes-Miguel Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation. “It benefits both community health and the strength of the local workforce.”

Since its creation just four years ago, Hire Local has already made a measurable difference in Memphis.

“Support from partners like the Regions Foundation allows us to deliver innovative, evidence-based workforce solutions tailored to our community,” explained Latasha Harris, MMDC’s senior director of Workforce Strategies. “It also strengthens our ability to achieve real, lasting results.”

Thompson first met Harris the day she heard that life-changing announcement. The two quickly formed a close relationship.

“Tasha is everything a mentor should be,” Thompson said. “She genuinely cares, checks in even when I don’t realize I need it, and pushes me to grow.”

Harris has been equally inspired. “MacKenzie is strong, determined, and insightful,” she said. “She’s become more confident, articulate, and has shown impressive leadership.”

But before she even stepped into Le Bonheur, Thompson’s commitment was tested.

“I was counting the days until training started, and I had bought new scrubs because I was so excited,” she said. Then, just before classes began, a car accident left her without transportation.

Once again, her faith and family came through. “My mom told me, ‘I’ll drive you every day,’” Thompson said. “And everything worked out. I knew this was meant for me.”

Two years later, Thompson is still at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, now working in the cardiac unit—a role she feels fits her perfectly.

“I love working with kids, and pediatrics is where my heart is,” she said. “You connect deeply with families going through difficult times.”

Thanks to Hire Local’s continued support, she’s also moving forward in her nursing career at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology. The program helps students with tuition, mentoring, and career guidance. Thompson completed her prerequisites for the licensed practical nursing program in June and will begin core classes in September.

She’s also grown into a spokesperson for Hire Local, appearing on local TV with Harris and speaking to new student cohorts—something she never imagined doing.

“Being on the news was amazing,” she laughed. “My mom kept replaying it, and my little brother tells me how proud he is. Without Hire Local, I would’ve never had these opportunities.”

For Thompson, the journey is about more than just a career.

“Life’s too short not to do what you love,” she said. “I want to still love this work when I’m 50, 60, even 70. This is what God intended for me.”

Beyond Financial Aid, Hire Local Offers:
  • Access to mentors and professional networks
  • Training in workplace and communication skills
  • Guest speakers, employer visits, and job shadowing opportunities
  • Direct connections to employers for internships, references, and jobs