International Employees at CCCH
While stories of global talent migration are becoming increasingly common, we are able to share the inspiring journeys of two professionals who begin their careers together in one country and were reunited years later in another. This is the story of two or our employees, Francis and Aloysius, who started as classmates in Nigeria and are now living their shared dream of working in the United States on H-1B Visas – right here in Imperial, Nebraska.
Francis and Aloysius met as undergraduate students in Nigeria. Both were enrolled in the same Laboratory Technology program at college, where they quickly recognized each other’s ambition and work ethic. During their years at the university, they collaborated on numerous academic projects and formed a close professional bond. They often discussed their aspirations of working in the United States—a destination viewed by many Nigerian students as a hub for innovation, growth, and global opportunity. Their shared vision set them apart, and even after graduation, they stayed connected, supporting one another through the early stages of their careers.
After gaining several years of industry experience, they began applying to jobs in the U.S. Knowing the challenges and competitiveness of the H-1B visa process, they approached it strategically, building strong resumes and portfolios, obtaining advanced certifications, and networking with companies that had a history of sponsoring international employees. In 2024, Francis received the news he had been hoping for: he was selected for a job in the United States at Chase County Community Hospital in Imperial, Nebraska. Francis eagerly accepted this role as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Chase County Hospital and the H1-B Visa process began for him.
Adjusting to life in the United States came with its own set of challenges, including navigating a new culture, workplace dynamics, and visa regulations. However, the support he and his family received proved invaluable. All through the process, he stayed in touch with his friend Aloysius. Not much later, Aloysius secured employment in the United States as well, but he was going to be located in Texas. They regularly connected to share experiences, exchange advice, and provide emotional support—just as they had during their time in college.
While the process for Francis and his family to come to the United States was fairly smooth, Aloysius experienced some more significant hurdles. Once Aloysius arrived, he was informed that his employment opportunity in Texas had fallen through. As he had previously, he reached out to Francis for support and advice. Francis was able to connect him with professionals at Chase County Community Hospital. After some discussion, it was apparent that Aloysius would make a good fit in Imperial as well.
Time was not on their side. There are limits on how long immigrants can stay in the U.S. without being sponsored by an employer. They had to work fast. The Human Resources department at Chase County Hospital worked with their employment attorneys to get all the visa paperwork transferred to Chase County Hospital. They acted in just the nick of time. With only a day to spare, they were granted the transfer of Aloysious’s H1-B Visa through the U.S. Department of Labor.
On May 5th, Aloysius began his first day of work as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Chase County Hospital. Francis and Aloysius are now working side by side, just as they had been at college. Their families have connected and they are all thriving. Their supervisor has praised their cross-cultural insights and problem-solving abilities—skills that were honed during their time in Nigeria – as tremendous assets to the Laboratory Department.
The H-1B visa program has long served as a bridge for skilled professionals from around the world to contribute to innovation and fill critical workforce needs. Their journey also underscores the importance of global education networks, perseverance, and the enduring power of professional relationships. From their days as classmates to their current roles in the American healthcare industry, Francis and Aloysius exemplify how talent, when nurtured and given opportunity, can transcend borders.