For McDowell Technical Community College nursing student Skylar McIntosh, the path to becoming a registered nurse hasn’t followed a straight line—but it’s a journey she says she wouldn’t trade for anything. From dual enrollment classes in high school to pursuing her Associate Degree in Nursing through the LPN-to-RN Bridge Program, McIntosh has found both academic rigor and a deep sense of belonging at McDowell Tech.
“I took nursing pre-requisites in high school, completed both the Esthetics and Practical Nursing programs, and now I’m taking classes in the LPN-to-RN Bridge Program,” said McIntosh. “Every step of the way, my instructors have gone out of their way to make me feel supported. It’s like a family here.”
Skylar’s story is a continuation of family legacy—her mother, Cynthia Smith, is a McDowell Tech graduate with degrees in both business and accounting. “My mom always spoke highly of the college, and I’ve found the same welcoming environment she described,” said McIntosh.
A 2020 graduate of McDowell High School, McIntosh began earning college credit through the Career and College Promise program while still in high school and completed her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification by the end of her junior year. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit during her senior year, she briefly shifted course, taking college-transfer prerequisites at another community college before returning to McDowell Tech to earn an esthetics degree in 2023.
She re-entered the healthcare field the following August, enrolling in the college’s Practical Nursing program, which she completed in August 2024. A few months later, in January 2025, she enrolled in the LPN-to-RN Bridge Program, which she expects to complete next May. Along the way, she has gained hands-on experience working in geriatrics, private pediatric care, and now works part-time as a pediatric home health nurse with BAYADA.
After graduating from McDowell Tech, she plans to transition directly into an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, likely through Western Carolina University.
Despite her academic load, Skylar has found time to build close friendships with fellow students and a strong support network among instructors. “There were times when my instructors felt more like family than faculty,” she said. “Whether it was Mr. Moore, Ms. Huffman, Ms. Wakefield, Ms. Epley, or Ms. Kay, every one of them has been there whenever I needed help or encouragement.”
“Maddison (Skylar) is someone who doesn’t give up,” said Dr. Kimberly Amos, Director of Nursing Education. “She always shows up ready to learn, but what stands out most is how much she cares about people—her patients, her classmates and the work itself. It’s been a privilege to watch her grow into a dedicated, compassionate nurse.”
At just 23 years old, McIntosh has already navigated a wide range of healthcare settings and life experiences, including the recent loss of her father. She has earned state licensure in both esthetics and practical nursing. Through it all, she’s leaned on the support of the McDowell Tech community. “This college has been my rock. I’ve always felt comfortable and cared for here.”
“Skylar’s story is a powerful example of how students can Learn, Grow, and Dream when they are supported and encouraged,” said Dr. J.W. Kelley, President at McDowell Tech. “Our faculty and staff work hard to create a college community where students feel they truly belong.”
If you want to experience the same sense of belonging that Skylar and so many others have found at McDowell Tech, please visit www.mcdowelltech.edu or stop by our One Stop Center in the Cedar Building during business hours.
