On The Job with Tasha Robinson, LPN

NORTH ALABAMA – Welcome to “On The Job”, a series that focuses on professions throughout North Alabama.  

40-year-old Tasha Robinson is a licensed practical nurse (LPN) at Huntsville Hospital. Robinson, who lives in Decatur, took part in the LPN Launch program, a partnership between Huntsville Hospital and Drake State Community and Technical College that provides financial assistance to students to become licensed practical nurses.

The program works to address critical nursing shortages. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states the demand for LPNs will increase by 5% during the 10 years ending in 2032. According to Indeed.com, the average base salary for an LPN in Huntsville is $31.13 per hour.  

A graduate of the LPN Launch program in 2022, Robinson works in the Acute Medical Care Unit 3 at Huntsville Hospital. Unit 3 Director Loren Lochner said Robinson is a tremendous asset to the floor.

“Tasha is the epitome of grace and kindness. She has a sense of calm about her that allows a deep rapport to be established with her patients,” said Lochner. “Tasha is professional and supports her colleagues by jumping in and helping anyone in need.”  

Robinson spoke with 256 Today about her career as an LPN. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.  

Why did you become an LPN?

I always knew I wanted to be a nurse since I was in elementary school. I remember sitting at the desk with some of my classmates and were just talking about what we wanted to do when we grew up. And I think we all were about five or six years old. And I remember saying that distinctly that I was going to be a nurse. 

I think it’s just something that was embedded in my spirit. 

How did you become part of the LPN Launch Program? 

I am currently a tech at Huntsville Hospital but I’ve always wanted to be a nurse. I noticed that they had the LPN apprenticeship program and I just said why not. And I didn’t think I would actually get in, the process was quite competitive but I did. I applied and I went through the process and got accepted.  Once you have all your pre-requisites, the program itself is just a year.

What is your favorite part of your job?  

My favorite part of my job is feeling like I’m making a difference in people’s lives to be able to help them in whatever way I can.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

I would say for me, I would say having a patient pass, that’s very difficult. It’s not a good feeling to have someone pass on you.    

Would you recommend this career path to others? 

I would. I definitely would. It’s just a level of empathy, compassion. It’s a way of giving back to the world in a positive light. 

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