Recent high school graduates, current LincolnHealth employees, nursing students, master’s degree holders, and new moms all see the rewards of becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) through LincolnHealth’s free CNA course.

“When I first heard about this free training at a well-known hospital, I thought it was too good to be true” stated Richard Clift, a recent graduate of the program.

The free, three-month CNA course trains students for a rewarding caregiving career that is in high demand throughout Maine. To lessen the financial burden involved with attending training, students accepted in the Apprenticeship Program are paid while they learn in exchange for a work commitment.

“I wanted to be able to work with people in more of a hands-on approach, which I find very fulfilling” explained Clift, who most recently had a profession in social work. “I see a career here,” he added.

For some, working as a CNA is a lifelong, rewarding career—many enjoy the close interactions with patients and residents. But for others, becoming a CNA is a step in their healthcare careers.

Sarah Lewis, a Washington resident and recent graduate of the program, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at the University of Maine in Augusta. Before becoming a CNA, Lewis worked in food service, but she wanted to start working in her chosen career path as soon as possible.

“I loved the class because Jennifer (the instructor) is inspiring and is passionate about what she is teaching. I enjoyed going to different places for clinical experiences,” stated Lewis.

F or Cameron Blake, a Bristol resident and program graduate, becoming a CNA is a way to give back to the community he grew up in and to help pursue his ultimate goal of becoming a physician assistant. Blake currently holds a medical biology degree from the University of New England. Working as a CNA will aid him in developing his skills and bedside manner, as well as help him in the application process for a physician assistant studies program.

Other students in the spring class included mothers of young children as well as a LincolnHealth employee who was working at Cove’s Edge as a housekeeper.

“Caregiving is a rewarding career. I cannot imagine working in any other profession” stated the course instructor, Jennifer McIntire, RN. “I am so proud to be a part of the first step of my students’ journeys into healthcare” she said at the 2017 spring CNA class graduation at Cove’s Edge on the LincolnHealth – Miles Campus.

Sign up for next class

The next CNA class will begin on Tuesday, September 5, 2017. Interested candidates should apply as soon as possible for the earliest interview date. To be considered for the first interview date of July 31, applications must be received by July 26. For the August 7 interview date, applications must be in by August 2, and for the August 14 interview date, applications must be received by August 9. Class size is limited. Classes are held three days a week for three months.

Apprentice CNAs are paid while attending classes and commit to working at long-term care facilities affiliated with LincolnHealth for 18 months following graduation. The Apprenticeship Program is available to select students as funds are available.

Although acceptance into the apprenticeship program does not guarantee employment after graduation, every effort is made to place graduates in jobs based on staffing needs and the apprentice’s qualifications.

To request an application or for more information, please call the LincolnHealth Education Department at 563-4540.