Nicole Kollman, Licensed Practical Nurse and Clinical Nurse Consultant at EF Senior Care, has been named to the Future Leaders Awards Class of 2026 by Skilled Nursing News.

To become a Future Leader, an individual is nominated by their peers. The candidate must be a high-performing employee who is 40 years of age or younger, a passionate worker who knows how to put vision into action, and an advocate for older adults and the committed professionals who ensure their well-being.

Kollman sat down with Skilled Nursing News to share what drew her to the skilled nursing industry, the biggest leadership lessons she has learned, her thoughts on the future of skilled nursing, and much more. To learn more about the Future Leaders Awards program, visit https://futureleaders.wtwhmedia.com/

SNN: What drew you to the skilled nursing industry?

Kollman: I was drawn to skilled nursing because it gave me the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with residents while also making a direct impact on quality of care.

Early in my nursing career, I realized that long-term care is one of the most complex and rewarding areas in healthcare. It requires clinical knowledge, leadership, compassion, and the ability to adapt quickly. I found purpose in advocating for residents, supporting frontline staff, and helping facilities improve systems that ultimately lead to better outcomes and quality of life for the people we care for. 

SNN: How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it changed over time?

Kollman: I would describe my leadership style as collaborative, supportive, and solutions-focused.

Earlier in my career, I focused heavily on task completion and operational efficiency. Over time, I learned that the strongest leaders build trust, mentor others, and create an environment where staff feel supported and empowered.

Today, I place a strong emphasis on education, communication, and teamwork. I believe the best outcomes happen when leadership is approachable, visible, and willing to work alongside the team. 

SNN: What is the biggest leadership lesson you’ve learned while serving the skilled nursing industry?

Kollman: The biggest lesson I have learned is that consistency and presence matter.

Staff want leaders who are engaged, responsive, and willing to listen. In skilled nursing, challenges can change hour by hour, and strong leadership during difficult situations can significantly impact both staff morale and resident care.

I’ve learned that even small actions – following through, being transparent, and supporting your team during stressful moments – build credibility and trust over time. 

SNN: In one word, how would you describe the skilled nursing industry and why?

Kollman: Resilient.

Skilled nursing professionals continuously adapt to evolving regulations, staffing challenges, higher acuity residents, and public health concerns while continuing to provide compassionate care. The industry has faced enormous challenges, but the dedication of the teams working within it continues to drive progress and innovation.

SNN: What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges currently facing the skilled nursing industry?

Kollman: One of the biggest opportunities is continuing to strengthen clinical quality and operational systems through education, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Skilled nursing facilities are caring for increasingly complex residents, and there is a tremendous opportunity to improve outcomes through stronger infection prevention practices, staff development, standardized processes, and proactive quality assurance initiatives.

At the same time, staffing and workforce retention remain some of the industry’s greatest challenges. Facilities are asking staff to manage increasingly complex care needs while navigating regulatory pressures and workforce shortages. Supporting and investing in frontline caregivers will be critical to the future success of the industry.

SNN: If you had a crystal ball, what do you think will impact the skilled nursing industry over the next 5-10 years?

Kollman: I believe the industry will continue moving toward higher clinical acuity, increased regulatory oversight, and greater integration of technology into daily operations.

Data-driven quality initiatives, infection prevention, and documentation accuracy will continue to play a major role in facility success.

I also think there will be a stronger focus on specialized care programs and keeping residents healthier within the facility to reduce avoidable hospitalizations. Facilities that prioritize staff education, adaptability, and strong clinical systems will be best positioned for long-term success. 

SNN: In your opinion, what qualities must all Future Leaders possess?

Kollman: Future Leaders must be adaptable, accountable, compassionate, and willing to continuously learn.

The healthcare world is constantly evolving, and leaders must be able to guide teams through change while maintaining a strong focus on resident-centered care. Strong communication, integrity, and the ability to support and inspire others are also essential.

Most importantly, Future Leaders must remain approachable and never lose sight of the people at the center of this work – the residents and staff we serve every day.