Today we’d like to introduce you to Angie Garza.
Hi Angie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My career in healthcare began as a Certified Nursing Assistant, during a time in my life marked by significant personal responsibility. While raising my three‑year‑old child, I unexpectedly became the primary caregiver for my sister’s six children—an event that occurred just as I entered my LVN program. Although the circumstances were challenging,
I was fortunate to receive support through Project Quest, a local initiative that assists single parents with tuition and essential resources for vocational training. Balancing school, work, and the demands of raising teenagers brought many hardships, but those experiences strengthened my determination. I knew I had to complete my education, not only for myself, but for the children who depended on me and looked to me as an example of perseverance and possibility.
My passion for nursing education began early, sparked by the interactions I had with nursing students completing their clinical rotations at my facility. After earning my RN, I learned that a BSN was required to teach, so I returned to school to obtain the degree that would allow me to pursue this calling. I later joined the faculty at my alma mater and eventually continued my education through Kaplan University, earning a master’s degree with a specialization in nursing education.
Over the years, I advanced into leadership roles, serving as the Dean of both the Nursing and Certified Nursing Assistant programs. When the school changed ownership, I remained in my role and continued supporting students and faculty until the campus ultimately closed. I returned to bedside nursing for a period, but I soon realized how deeply I missed the classroom—the energy of students, the moments when a difficult concept finally “clicked,” and the privilege of shaping future healthcare professionals.
I was later recruited to build a new nursing program from the ground up for another local college. Despite the challenges of the COVID‑19 pandemic, I successfully secured Texas Board of Nursing approval in just ten months—a significant accomplishment during a time when limited contact and staffing constraints slowed regulatory processes statewide. My decade of experience in nursing education and my strong professional relationships with board members were invaluable during this period.
After leaving that role, I transitioned into long‑term care as a Director of Nursing, a position I greatly enjoyed until an automobile accident required me to step away for medical reasons. During my recovery, I worked intermittently while managing additional family health issues. It was during this time that a former colleague reached out to ask whether I was still interested in teaching. She connected me with an individual seeking to establish a vocational school with a Certified Nursing Assistant program as its foundation. The opportunity reignited my passion for education.
That introduction led me to Dr. Wright and ultimately to the creation of Pinnacle Career Center. I accepted the role of School Director and developed the application for the Certified Nursing Assistant program, securing approval from the Department of Human Services and, subsequently, the Texas Workforce Commission. We launched our first cohort on March 16, 2026, with three students. I have since initiated applications for Medication Aide and Phlebotomy Technician programs to expand our offerings and provide students with accessible, workforce‑ready training options.
In addition to my administrative work, I continue to mentor emerging nurses. I was recently asked to serve as a preceptor for a master’s‑level leadership student—an opportunity I gladly accepted. Giving back to the nursing profession remains one of my greatest commitments. I have learned that teaching is a reciprocal experience; while I guide students in their professional growth, they continually teach me about resilience, learning styles, and the diverse ways individuals approach the art and science of nursing.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I experienced several challenges during my LVN program. As I shared before, I carried the responsibility of raising my sister’s children throughout that time. One of my nieces struggled with the transition at first, which created some early difficulties, but she eventually recognized that changes were necessary for all of us to move forward in a healthier direction.
Although I was fortunate that my tuition was covered, I still had to work sixteen‑hour shifts every weekend to keep our household financially stable. Because the children were not legally mine, we did not qualify for government assistance, and that created additional strain during already demanding circumstances. Our home was a small two‑bedroom space that we converted into three bedrooms, so it was crowded, but we made it work. Despite the obstacles, we stayed committed, adapted where we needed to, and managed to get through that period together.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I serve as the Director of Pinnacle Career Center, a newly established institution dedicated to high‑quality healthcare training. We recently launched a new cohort of Certified Nursing Assistant students, and I am proud to guide this program as both an administrator and an educator. My professional background includes extensive experience in nursing education, complemented by years of clinical practice in long‑term care, hospice, and pediatric ventilation.
Throughout my career, I have been recognized for being firm but fair, upholding regulatory standards, and maintaining a deep commitment to student success. One of my greatest professional achievements is having spent more than 15 years in the field of education, during which I have supported and graduated numerous students in both nursing and nursing assistant programs. It is especially meaningful that many former students continue to reach out—seeking guidance, sharing accomplishments, or simply expressing gratitude. Their continued connection reinforces the impact of strong mentorship.
One moment that stands out occurred when I encountered a former student at a previous workplace. She became emotional upon seeing me, leaving the surrounding staff unsure of what was happening. After composing herself, she embraced me and explained to the nurses that I had been “the best dean she could have asked for,” because I never allowed her to give up, even when she wanted to quit. Her words were a powerful reminder of the influence educators can have and remain one of the proudest moments of my career.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
The most reliable way to reach me is by email. I am also available by phone; however, I am in class until 3:00 p.m., so I may not be able to answer immediately. You are welcome to leave a message, and I will return your call as soon as possible.
You may contact me through any of the following:
– Email: Pinnaclecc24@gmail.com
– Phone: (210) 982‑6520
– Website: www.pinaclecareercenter.com
Pricing:
- CNA $1240.00
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pinnaclecareercenter.com
- Instagram: @pinnaclecareercenter
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pinnaclecareercenter/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pinnaclecareercenter/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liuoEPpqG_o&t=1s
