Three Canadian Valley Technology Center Practical Nursing students, along with instructor and HOSA adviser Misti Heston, attended the 2009 HOSA Fall Leadership Conference

The conference was at the Clarion Convention Center in Oklahoma City.

The attendees, who also serve as local HOSA officers, said they were excited about the opportunity to attend.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the conference was a really great experience,” said Melissa Strange, HOSA secretary.

Said organization reporter Lindsey Line: “We learned a lot, heard from some great speakers, and are excited about implementing some of the things we learned in our chapter.”

Maria Thompson, president, also attended the conference.

More than 990 members, advisers and guests attended the event from 100 local HOSA chapters from across the state.

HOSA ( Health Occupation Students of America) is a national organization working to enhance the quality and methods of health care and to promote career opportunities in the health care industry.

HOSA is an integral part of CareerTech’s Health Careers Education Program and can be found on high school and technology center campuses across the state. Nationally, HOSA has nearly 100,000 members in 47 states, with more than 4,700 members in Oklahoma.

“Students involved with our occupational education courses and student organizations are better prepared for future employment,” said Phil Berkenbile, CareerTech state director. “They have a smoother transition from school to career because of the skills and leadership activities provided through CareerTech training.”

“HOSA members are set apart from other students by their preparedness for the workforce,” said Debbie Shumaker, state HOSA adviser. “They gain confidence and critical thinking skills that are demonstrated during competitive events.

“With the health care shortage that we have here in the state of Oklahoma, HOSA is a wonderful opportunity for students to grow, become more prepared for the work environment and to learn soft and technical skills.”

HOSA is one of seven student organizations affiliated with CareerTech programs. The other six include FFA and Agricultural Education, DECA and Marketing Education, TSA and Technology Education, BPA and Business and Information Technology Education, FCCLA and Family and Consumer Sciences Education, and SkillsUSA and Trade and Industry Education.



Three CVTC Practical Nursing students attended the HOSA fall leadership conference held recently in Oklahoma City. They are (from left) Lindsey Line, Maria Thompson and Melissa Strange.