Start a new career in the medical field with CNA training

Date: 05/04/2023

Careers in healthcare can be very rewarding, but sometimes, travel to a distant classroom and the cost of courses make it difficult to receive the necessary training. Eastern Maine Community College and Northern Light Mayo Hospital are removing these barriers by offering local certified nursing assistant (CNA) training at no cost to people who would like to start a new career in healthcare.

Certified nursing assistants provide care under the supervision of a registered nurse. An essential part of the care team, CNAs help patients with basic needs including eating and drinking, bathing, repositioning in bed, observing vital signs, and more.

“A career as a CNA can be very fulfilling, and for those who would like to continue their training, it can be a great first step toward becoming a registered nurse or other clinical professional,” says Nikki Chadwick, RN, MSN, CPHQ, vice president of Quality and Education, Mayo Hospital, and one of the instructors for the course.

The training course consists of a combination of classes in theory, laboratory, and clinical learning experiences. Students who successfully complete the course and the state board examination will receive state certification. Candidates must have either a high school diploma or HISET/GED.

Classes will be held at Mayo Hospital on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings from 4-8 pm, and clinicals will be held on select Thursdays and Fridays. Classes begin on May 16 and continue through July 14.

Enrollment is limited to 10 students. The enrollment process includes a criminal background check, placement testing, and an application prior to acceptance into the program. Complete immunization records and proof of COVID-19 vaccine and booster(s) are required at the time of registration.

The CNA program is funded by the Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan through the Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine’s Workforce.

To learn more and apply, please contact Emma Gibson at 207.974.4746 or egibson@emcc.edu.