Trauma Program Managers (TPMs) play a critical role in hospital trauma care systems, yet many face significant barriers to professional development. Today, in collaboration with ATS, TCAA & STN, we’re proud to announce a solution to this challenge:
The Trauma Education, Advancement, and Management Scholarship (Trauma TEAMS) program.
What is Trauma TEAMS?
Trauma TEAMS is a collaborative initiative established by National Quality Systems, Inc. (NQS) in partnership with three leading trauma organizations: American Trauma Society (ATS), Trauma Center Association of America (TCAA) and Society of Trauma Nurses (STN).
This scholarship program provides financial support, education, and mentorship opportunities to help Trauma Program Managers enhance their leadership skills, strengthen trauma program operations, and implement quality improvements that benefit both their institutions and the patients they serve.
Scholarship Categories
Trauma TEAMS helps Trauma Program Managers (or equivalent roles) at different stages of their careers. Scholarship recipients receive free courses, free year membership to ATS and STN, networking and mentorship opportunities and more.
Let’s look at the scholarships for new and experiences trauma program leaders:
1. Emerging Trauma Leader Scholarship for TPMs with 3 or fewer years of experience
Free courses:
(ATS) Trauma Program Manager Course
Foundational training on leadership roles, performance improvement, and trauma center verification to set new TPMs up for success.
(TCAA) Basic Trauma Center Finance & Business Course
An introduction to the hospital billing cycle, trauma charges, and key financial roles that affect program sustainability.
(STN) Trauma Outcomes and Performance Improvement Course (TOPIC)
Structured reviews and strategies to monitor outcomes across the continuum of trauma care.
Additional Benefits
- One‑year memberships to ATS and STN
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders
- Certificates of completion from each organization
2. Trauma Leadership Excellence Scholarship for TPMs with more than 3 years of experience
Recipients may choose any four of the following advanced courses:
(ATS) 2nd Trauma – Communication Strategies for the Trauma Provider
Techniques for delivering compassionate, clear information to families and loved ones of trauma patients.
(TCAA) Advanced Trauma Center Finance and Business
Deep‑dive into analysing financial data and tackling complex economic challenges unique to trauma programs.
(TCAA) Integrating Mental Health Into Trauma Programs
Tools and frameworks to weave mental‑health services seamlessly into trauma workflows.
(TCAA) Dynamic Leadership Team
Interactive workshop that helps TPM/TMD teams overcome operational barriers and expand services.
(STN) Advanced Trauma Program Management (ATPM)
Scenario‑based mastery across six core TPM performance domains.
(STN) Optimal Trauma Center Organization & Management (OPTIMAL)
System‑wide strategies to optimise organisational structure and improve outcomes.
Additional Benefits
- One‑year memberships to ATS and STN
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders
- Certificates of completion from each organization
Trauma Program Leadership Skills Assessment
Unsure which courses fit your needs? Take our fun self‑assessment to map your current skill set to the Trauma TEAMS curriculum.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Trauma TEAMS Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a Trauma Program Manager or hold a comparable leadership role in a US hospital‑based trauma program
- Be a current member of at least one partner organization (ATS, TCAA, or STN)
- Demonstrate commitment to advancing trauma care through education or quality‑improvement initiatives
- Have financial need or limited institutional support for professional development
- Have a clear vision for how the scholarship will enhance their role in trauma leadership
- Meet experience requirements for their selected scholarship category
Application Process
1. Personal Statement (250–300 words)
Describe your background, trauma experience, and career goals.
2. Letter of Recommendation
A signed letter from a hospital leader supporting your application.
3. Statement of Impact (250–300 words)
Explain how the scholarship will improve your professional growth and benefit your trauma program.
Key Dates
Key dates for the 2025 cohort:
- Online application window: Jun 2 – Jul 11, 2025
- Application review: Jul 14 – Aug 8, 2025
- Recipient notification: Aug 15, 2025
- Course completion deadline: Mar 27, 2026
Selection Committee
The Trauma TEAMS Selection Committee is chaired by JoAnn Lazarus, RN, MSN, CEN, FAEN, Executive Director of the program and includes representatives from each partner organization.
“The Society of Trauma Nurses (STN) applauds National Quality Systems for its commitment to develop and implement the Trauma TEAMS scholarship program in collaboration with STN, the Trauma Center Association of America, and the American Trauma Society.
This important initiative will provide Trauma Program Managers with unprecedented opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth, which supports STN’s mission to deliver optimal and equitable trauma care to all people.”
Elizabeth Atkins, MSN, RN, TCRN
STN President
“The ATS has a rich history of dedication to the education of our trauma care providers, the foundational members of our trauma systems. We are honored to partner with National Quality Systems, the Society of Trauma Nurses and the Trauma Centers Association of America in furthering this work by providing educational opportunities for our Trauma Program Managers.
“This partnership represents our joint efforts in supporting their access to essential educational programs to address their professional development and through this effort, maintain excellence in trauma care.”
Glen Tinkoff, MD, FACS
ATS President
“TCAA is proud to collaborate with NQS, ATS, and STN to launch the Trauma TEAMS Scholarship — an innovative initiative that empowers Trauma Program Managers at every stage of their careers. By combining financial support and education, Trauma TEAMS removes barriers and builds pathways for trauma leaders to thrive.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to advancing trauma care by developing skilled professionals to drive change in their institutions and communities.”
Jennifer Ward
TCAA President
“NQS is proud to stand alongside ATS, TCAA & STN for the launch of the TEAMS Scholarship Program—giving both emerging and veteran trauma leaders the knowledge, network, and support they need to elevate trauma care.”
JoAnn Lazarus, RN, MSN, CEN, FAEN
Executive Director of Trauma TEAMS
NQS Scholarship Executive Director
Apply Today!
Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your trauma‑leadership skills and strengthen trauma care at your institution.
