Nurse to Entrepreneur: How ESD's EAC Program Helped Launch a Healthcare Training Business

teal background with the text "entrepreneur development small business spotlight" also featuring the ESD logo

Each February, ESD celebrates Black entrepreneurs who are shaping New York’s economy through hard work and innovation. As part of our #BlackHistoryMonth series, we’re highlighting inspiring business owners who found success with the support of our Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers (EACs). 

Meet Odaysia Burton-Garland, Founder of Pulse Career Solutions 

After a 15-year career as a registered nurse, Odaysia Burton-Garland recognized the critical need for more healthcare workers—especially from underserved communities. After refining her business strategy – thanks to resources, including a “boot camp,” offered by Capital Region Chamber Foundation (CRCF) EAC – she founded Pulse Career Solutions in 2022 to close the healthcare gap by providing accessible certification courses in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, Basic Life Support, and more. Burton-Garland has since trained more than 187 individuals, helping them secure well-paying healthcare jobs. Her mission ensures that no one is turned away due to financial hardship. 

Looking for resources to help grow your business? Find an EAC near you: ESD EAC Directory