Help Shape the Future of Nursing in Massachusetts

The Nursing Council on Workforce Sustainability (NCWS) brings together leaders and stakeholders from across Massachusetts to address the most pressing challenges facing the nursing workforce.
Our work is driven by collaboration—bringing together nurses and non-nurses alike from across healthcare, education, labor, and policy to develop innovative, evidence-based solutions that strengthen the workforce and improve health outcomes statewide. [ncwsma.org]
 
About NCWS
The NCWS was launched in 2021 through a partnership with:
  • ForHealth Consulting at UMass Chan Medical School
  • Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services
  • Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development
The Council was created to address complex workforce challenges, including staffing shortages, workforce diversity, education capacity, and system sustainability. [ncwsma.org]
Our mission is to convene stakeholders, inform policy, and advance practical solutions that support a resilient, sustainable, and equitable nursing workforce across the Commonwealth.
A Volunteer-Driven Effort
The work of the NCWS is largely carried out by dedicated volunteers who contribute their expertise, time, and leadership.
Our volunteer network includes individuals from:
  • Acute care and hospital systems
  • Long-term care and senior services
  • Academic institutions and nursing programs
  • Labor organizations and workforce development groups
  • Professional associations and trade organizations
  • Frontline and bedside nursing
  • Policy, data, and research organizations
This diverse representation ensures that our work reflects the full spectrum of the healthcare system.
Ways to Get Involved
Volunteers can engage in a variety of focus areas based on their experience and interests, including:
  • Student Pipeline & Career Pathways
  • Faculty & Nursing Education
  • Policy & Practice
  • Workforce Data & Analytics
  • Simulation & Clinical Innovation
  • Emerging initiatives and special projects
Participation may include joining a committee, contributing to workgroups, supporting pilot initiatives, or helping shape policy recommendations.
Why Volunteer with NCWS
By joining the NCWS, you will:
  • Contribute to statewide solutions addressing the nursing workforce shortage
  • Collaborate with cross-sector leaders and subject matter experts
  • Help influence policy, education, and workforce strategies
  • Be part of a coordinated effort representing over 70 organizations statewide 
Your expertise and perspective are critical to building a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system in Massachusetts.
Join the Team
We welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are committed to strengthening the nursing workforce.
If you are interested in volunteering with the NCWS, please reach out:
📧 NursingCouncil@umassmed.edu
A member of our team will follow up with opportunities to get involved.
Together, we can build a stronger nursing workforce for Massachusetts.