How can you get your foot into the door for becoming a NICU RN? I’ve been a RN for 7.5 years and ICU RN for 6.5 years.

Your ICU experience and being an RN for 7.5 years will be a benefit for you. I would begin by asking to speak to the manager/director of NICU and ask what they are looking for in a candidate. Ideally, they'll want someone with experience in that area vs someone who doesn't, but it's not an absolute. Also, your experience would (or should) place you ahead of any new grads seeking to work there. Speak of your desire to come to NICU and what you're willing to do in the meantime to achieve that goal, ie: take some of the classes required for NICU such as neonatal resuscitation, newborn assessment, etc., and any other specialized classes they require for their unit. You can also ask if it's possible for you to shadow one of their nurses or come in when they need a "second pair of hands", which doesn't require their special classes, but will give you some hands on experience there. In addition to 'helping' out in the NICU, you could also get 'beginning' experience by asking if you could help out or shadow in the newborn nursery as well. It's a stepping stone to that goal and will give you newborn assessment skills. It will also give you a better understanding of what that area entails ... and it's a lot more than those not familiar with it realize, ... as well as giving you a better idea of whether or not this really is an area you want to go to. The more experience and education you have that they require before applying, the more attractive you look to the 'boss'. Best of luck to you.