Western Nevada College to Expand Nursing Facilities in Fallon
Western Nevada College (WNC) is set to enhance nursing education opportunities in the rural community of Fallon through a significant renovation of the Piñon Building. As announced in a recent news release, design and permitting processes are currently underway, with construction scheduled to commence in January 2024. This initiative aims to provide nursing students in Fallon with improved access to essential hands-on training.
Upon completion, the renovated space will feature modern clinical training areas, advanced simulation laboratories, and dedicated study and testing rooms. These upgrades are expected to significantly enhance the educational experience for nursing students. Dr. Audrey Auer, Director of Nursing and Allied Health at WNC, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, noting that local clinical partners are eager to support the increased capacity for nursing education.
Currently, WNC accommodates eight students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in nursing at its Fallon campus. These students often travel to Carson City to fulfill additional coursework requirements. Once the renovation is complete, the campus will be equipped to serve up to 48 nursing students, including 24 first-year and 24 second-year students. Dr. Auer emphasized, “The goal is for Fallon students to have all required classes held on the Fallon campus.”
This expansion will not only provide additional lab and simulation space but will also create opportunities for recruiting more students from Fallon and the surrounding areas. The initiative reflects WNC’s commitment to addressing the nursing shortage and meeting the healthcare needs of rural communities.
The renovation of the Piñon Building is a significant step toward ensuring that nursing education remains accessible and relevant in today’s evolving healthcare landscape. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities, WNC aims to empower future healthcare professionals and strengthen the local workforce.
