Ep. 71: A mid-career pivot into locums as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with Thomas Cotto

Ep. 71: A mid-career pivot into locums as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with Thomas Cotto

January 23, 2026 · 31 min · Episode 71

About this episode

Thomas Cotto shares his journey from project management to becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner and his transition into locum tenens work.

Neonatal nurse practitioner Thomas Cotto joins us to share his unexpected path into healthcare, his 15‑year career in the NICU, and what ultimately led him to transition into locum tenens work. After a decade in project management, Thomas made the leap into nursing, quickly discovering a passion for neonatal care. Thomas reflects on his years in a high‑volume Level III NICU, the mentors and experiences that built his clinical foundation, and the moment he realized he needed a change. He walks through his early travel and PRN experiences, what drew him to Weatherby Healthcare, and how he evaluates assignments based on autonomy, acuity, culture, and fit. Whether you’re a nurse practitioner exploring locums for the first time or a seasoned clinician considering a career reset, Thomas’s story offers thoughtful guidance and a look at how locums can expand your experience while giving you more control over your schedule and career. Learn more about locum tenens opportunities with Weatherby at weatherbyhealthcare.com.

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