Career growth looks different for everyone. At South County Health, through mentorship, education, leadership development, and a culture of support, employees are empowered to grow at every stage of their careers.

For Paige Chippendale, BSN, RN, that investment began before she even graduated nursing school. 

Growing From the Beginning

Paige began her career at South County Health as a Certified Nursing Assistant on the Medical-Surgical unit.

"My journey at South County Health started before I was even a nurse. I began working as a CNA on the Medical-Surgical floor the summer before my senior year of nursing school. Being able to start on the same unit where I would eventually become an RN was such a valuable experience because it helped me learn the workflow, meet the team, and feel more comfortable transitioning into the nursing role."

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Paige joined South County Health's first New Graduate Nurse Residency cohort in September 2020.

"Starting my nursing career during COVID was definitely a unique experience, but I was lucky to have such a supportive team around me. Being part of that first group was really special because we were all learning and growing together."

A Culture of Support and Mentorship

As Paige's career evolved, so did her opportunities to lead. She credits the people around her for helping build her confidence and encouraging her to pursue new challenges.

"I've had so many people throughout my time at South County Health who have helped shape the nurse I am today. From coworkers who took the time to teach me when I was new, to leaders who encouraged me to step into new roles, I've always felt supported."

"Having people believe in me and give me opportunities to grow helped me build confidence. It's also what inspired me to become a preceptor myself because I know how important it is to have someone in your corner when you're learning."

Today, Paige has come full circle, mentoring new nurses and student nurse interns just as others once supported her.

"Over the past several years, I've had the opportunity to take on different roles, including charge nurse, preceptor, and clinical nurse. One of the most rewarding parts has been being able to support new nurses and student nurse interns the same way others supported me when I was starting out."

Investing in Professional Growth

South County Health encourages lifelong learning through education, leadership development, and opportunities to expand clinical expertise.

"The biggest thing I've appreciated is the support for continued growth. South County has provided opportunities like charge nurse training and preceptor classes that helped me develop not only clinically but also as a leader."

Paige says the organization has also supported her professional interests beyond her hospital role.

"I also really value the work-life balance here and the understanding that employees can have interests and goals outside of one specific role. South County has been supportive of my growth in aesthetic medicine as well, which has allowed me to continue expanding my nursing career in a different direction."

Her experience—including the Nurse Residency Program, charge nurse training, preceptor education, and mentorship from experienced colleagues—has helped build a strong clinical and leadership foundation.

Looking Ahead

Paige's career goals continue to grow, and she feels well prepared for what's next.
"A goal of mine is to eventually go back to school to become a Nurse Practitioner. I feel like my experience at South County has given me such a strong foundation, not only in bedside nursing but also in leadership, communication, and patient care. I'm excited to continue learning and see where my career takes me."

She believes continuing education and mentorship are key to helping nurses build long-term careers.

"Continuing to provide opportunities for education, mentorship, and leadership development is so important. Having a workplace that encourages growth while also supporting work-life balance makes a huge difference in helping nurses build long-term careers."

Finding Purpose Every Day

For Paige, the most rewarding part of working at South County Health is the people she works alongside and the relationships she builds with patients.

"What I love most about my role is the people. Nursing can be challenging, but having a team that supports each other makes such a difference."

"I also love that every day brings something different. You're constantly learning, building relationships with patients, and having the opportunity to make someone's day a little better during a difficult time."

Outside of work, Paige enjoys spending time with family and friends, strength training, Pilates, and relaxing at the beach. She also works part-time as a nurse injector in aesthetic medicine.

"I enjoy being able to work in two different areas of nursing because they challenge me in different ways and allow me to continue growing professionally."

Advice for Future Nurses

"My biggest advice would be to stay curious and don't be afraid to ask questions. Nursing is a career where you never stop learning. Take advantage of opportunities that push you outside of your comfort zone, because those experiences are usually where the most growth happens."

Looking back, she's grateful for where her career began—and excited for where it's headed.

"I'm really grateful that my journey at South County Health started the way it did. Being able to grow from a CNA, to a new graduate nurse, to a charge nurse and preceptor on the same unit has been such a rewarding experience. I'm thankful for the people who have supported me along the way and excited to continue growing with South County Health."

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