The shortage of healthcare professionals is an important issue both provincially and nationally.
However, growing concerns have arisen over the numerous internationally educated health professionals who are voicing their struggles to become either re-certified or are unable to practice their profession due to delays in registration.
This podcast is hosted by Madison Cook, RN, BScN and features Edward Cruz, RN, CCNE, BN, MScN, PhD who discusses the current challenges, solutions, and opportunities faced IENs transitioning to practice in Canada. Edward has been a Registered Nurse in Ontario since 2006. He is currently employed at the University of Windsor in Ontario, Canada as an Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Nursing, teaching in both the Undergraduate and Graduate programs.
Earlier in his career, Edward worked as a float pool nurse (nursing resource team) at a community hospital in Ontario and at a shelter for homeless men. Subsequently, in 2008, he found part-time work as a clinical instructor at a community college in Toronto and soon thereafter, was able to secure a full-time teaching position. Later, he became a coordinator of bridging programs for IENs where his passion on this topic emerged. Edward’s other interests are nursing education, interprofessional collaboration, as well as refugee and immigrant health. Most of his projects have centered around IENs, including his master’s thesis. Edward has also authored and co-authored articles focused on IENs. In Ontario, the largest project he engaged in was a collaborative project led by Pat Marten-Daniel of George Brown College, where five other bridging program providers contributed. This was funded by Ontario’s Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration for 3 years spanning from 2014 to 2017.
After more than twenty years of national leadership in supporting nursing students and newly graduated nurses through professional role transition, Nursing the Future (NTF) is concluding its current operational chapter.
Since 2004, NTF has served as a vital bridge for new nurses, educators, and leaders navigating the vulnerable early months of practice. Through evidence-based programming, national partnerships, and a commitment to building a safe “cul-de-sac” for early-career nurses, NTF has supported thousands across Canada in cultivating connection, confidence, and professional identity.
We extend deep gratitude to our partners, including the Canadian Nurses Foundation, the Canadian Nurses Association, the Canadian Nursing Students Association, provincial ministries, healthcare institutions, and countless contributors whose belief in transition-to-practice support made this work possible.
While formal operations conclude, the scholarship, curriculum, intellectual property, and program infrastructure developed over two decades remain intact and available for strategic partnership and collaboration. For further dialogue on potential collaborations, please contact Dr. Duchscher directly: newgraduates@nursingthefuture.ca
We welcome conversations with ministries, health regions, academic institutions, and professional associations interested in advancing initiatives such as:
The mission of healthy and supported professional role transition remains urgent. The work continues, sustained through scholarship, partnership, and shared commitment to the future of Canadian nursing.
With enduring gratitude,
Dr. Judy Duchscher - Founder & CEO, Nursing the Future
Kathryn Corneau - Program Director, Nursing the Future
For our FULL letter of Gratitude CLICK HERE
