Apprentice Spotlight: Marty Kay Johnson - Success Story

When Marty Johnson first began hearing about the Nursing Home Workforce Stabilization programs at MediLodge Shoreline in Sterling Heights, Michigan, the opportunities seemed almost too good to be true. Flyers posted near the time clock, text messages about workshops, and encouragement from supervisors all pointed to new resources for workers.

“I was so happy when we got that text,” Marty recalls. “It makes a difference, because that’s how everybody communicates. I thought—yes, let me do this.” 

With support from her employer and an H-CAP program coordinator, Marty began taking advantage of the opportunities offered through the program, including monthly expense reimbursements, financial literacy workshops, additional clinical training, and a scholarship to pursue nursing. The financial assistance and hands-on guidance made a critical difference—with that support, Marty was able to enroll in an accelerated nursing program.

“Not having my emotions divided between how I’m going to pay for things and focusing on school—that has helped me so much,” she explains. “It allowed me to really keep my mind focused on my studies.” 

For Marty, the decision to pursue nursing was rooted in years of caregiving experience and a deep sense of purpose. Before entering formal training, she spent seven years caring for someone who had been expected to live only a short time in hospice. With attentive, compassionate care, Marty helped that person live far longer than expected. “When you love to do it, even when there are challenges, you find a way,” she says. “You have to have the passion for it.” 

Through the scholarship and training opportunities, Marty is now building the credentials and knowledge needed for a long-term career in healthcare. She sees nursing not just as a single job, but as a pathway with many possibilities—from bedside care to community health or administration. “It has opened up so many different options,” she says. “When I say it has set me up, it really has. And for that, I’m grateful.” 

Marty also credits the program’s broader support—especially the financial literacy workshops—with helping her feel more confident about managing her future. The workshops and follow-up resources gave her tools to budget, plan, and make informed decisions.

“All the support gives you a well-rounded foundation to be successful,” she says. “A person can really build a better life with that kind of support.” 

Today, Marty encourages coworkers to take advantage of every opportunity available. She regularly shares information about the programs with new hires and reminds colleagues to watch for deadlines and apply. “You’re talking about making your life a little lighter and taking weight off your shoulders,” she says. “Utilize the benefits. Don’t let them pass you by.” 

The Nursing Home Workforce Stabilization program is designed to help workers advance their careers, strengthen financial stability, and build a future in healthcare. For Marty, the impact has been both practical and personal. “It humbles you,” she reflects. “It reminds you that someone cares enough to make sure you’re able to be successful. That means a lot.”