The NC Health Talent Alliance uses the Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) approach to solve this challenge throughout our state. TPM is a proven workforce development framework developed by the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Our TPM Regional Managers are forming local collaboratives of employers who will provide their own real-time workforce demand data to guide the implementation of better talent pipelines. By engaging directly with employers, the Alliance better defines and aligns talent demand, making recruitment and retention more targeted and efficient.

The Regional TPM Manager is responsible for leading the work to close the health care talent gap within specific NC regions. The creation of this regional role is the core of the NC Health Talent Alliance. Regional teams are responsible for tracking regional health workforce data, collaborating with employers, and working with education and training providers to improve outcomes. These regional teams will work collectively on immediate and longterm solutions to the talent gap. They will also coordinate their work as a statewide team to share learnings and identify policy and other barriers that need to be addressed.

This collaboration brings together leading healthcare professionals from Brunswick, Columbus, Duplin, New Hanover, and Pender counties. Key representatives in this local initiative include:

• Chair, Dr. Umar Bowers, Dawson Med

• Vice Chair, Amy Akers, Novant Health

• Kate Inman, Dosher Memorial Hospital

• Cheryl Andrison, Liberty Healthcare

• Tim King, Lower Cape Fear LifeCare

• Alexis Hunter, Wilmington Health

Key Organizations:

1. The Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research
   The Cecil G. Sheps Center is one of the nation’s premier research institutions focused on improving health services and healthcare delivery. Based at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the Sheps Center conducts groundbreaking research on healthcare access, workforce development, and policy to address state and national healthcare needs. Their work is instrumental in shaping policy and programs that improve healthcare outcomes in North Carolina.

2. N.C. Institute of Medicine (NCIOM)
   The N.C. Institute of Medicine is an independent, non-partisan organization that provides evidence-based recommendations for improving health in North Carolina. NCIOM collaborates with government agencies, health organizations, and communities to develop and advocate for policies that address pressing health issues, including workforce shortages, access to care, and the quality of health services. Their involvement ensures that the collaborative’s efforts are grounded in policy research and align with statewide health priorities.

3. NC Chamber Foundation
   The NC Chamber Foundation is the research and education arm of the NC Chamber, the state’s largest business advocacy organization. Focused on driving economic growth and prosperity, the Foundation emphasizes workforce development, education, and competitive business policies. By working with the healthcare sector, the Foundation seeks to build a robust talent pipeline that supports North Carolina’s growing healthcare needs while contributing to the overall economic health of the state.

4. NC Center on the Workforce for Health
   The NC Center on the Workforce for Health is a leading organization focused on strengthening the healthcare workforce across the state. By coordinating efforts among healthcare providers, educational institutions, and policy-makers, the Center works to address workforce shortages, improve recruitment and retention, and ensure that healthcare professionals are adequately trained to meet North Carolina’s healthcare demands. Their focus on long-term solutions is crucial for the state’s healthcare system, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

5. North Carolina Area Health Education Centers (NC AHEC)
   NC AHEC is a statewide organization dedicated to improving healthcare access through education and training. With a focus on supporting healthcare professionals, particularly in rural and underserved communities, NC AHEC plays a pivotal role in workforce development. Their efforts include providing continuing education, facilitating clinical training opportunities, and fostering a pipeline of future healthcare workers through partnerships with local education systems and healthcare providers.

6. South East Area Health Education Centers (SEAHEC)
   SEAHEC is a regional branch of the AHEC system, serving southeastern North Carolina. Their mission is to improve healthcare outcomes by offering professional development and continuing education opportunities to healthcare workers in the region. SEAHEC is instrumental in bridging the gap between healthcare education and practical workforce needs, ensuring that local healthcare providers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve their communities effectively.