For many of our caregivers, leaving Providence is part of their career journey, but so is coming back. For John, behavioral health nurse manager, returning to Providence Alaska meant reconnecting with the lifestyle, community and sense of purpose that had initially shaped his career. It was a place where he grew as a nurse and, after a brief hiatus, where he saw a meaningful opportunity to keep leading, learning and making a difference.

Finding purpose in behavioral health

John’s path into behavioral health began with a desire to support young people in Anchorage. He knew Providence was a respected, mission-driven organization, known for quality care and strong leadership. When he joined, he found the purpose, support and sense of belonging he had hoped for: a one-of-a-kind place to give and receive care.

Eventually, John moved to Ohio to be closer to extended family, and began working as an RN outside of behavioral health. While this experience broadened his skills and perspective, it also helped him realize how deeply impactful Providence’s Mission is for patients and caregivers.

Returning stronger, with a new perspective

When it was time to move back to Alaska, John knew where he wanted to be. Anchorage offered the lifestyle he and his family loved, and Providence offered the meaningful work. In many ways, it felt like coming home.

Today, John’s role is both personal and purposeful. As a caregiver, leader and hiring manager, he is shaping the future of behavioral health at Providence one hire at a time. He places importance on finding caregivers who connect with the Mission because it strengthens the team culture and creates a welcoming environment.

For John, hiring is about more than clinical skills. “You can teach skills, it’s hard to teach values,” he says. He also believes culture can change the way people experience even the hardest work: “You can have easy work that becomes hard because the culture is poor, or you can have hard work that becomes easier because the culture is good.”

Supported every step of the way

Providence helped make the move smooth with relocation support and temporary lodging while his family got settled. That support reinforced something he had already experienced firsthand: “Providence does take really good care of their nurses.” For caregivers considering Anchorage, that kind of support can help make a big transition feel more possible.

A place to grow, belong and make an impact

John is excited about what comes next. He sees Providence’s growing investments in behavioral health as a meaningful commitment to the community—and a sign that this work matters. For caregivers considering Anchorage, his story is a reminder that Providence can be a place to grow, feel supported and build a career connected to purpose.

If you’re ready to bring—or bring back—your experience to a team where your work matters, explore opportunities with Providence.