Damariscotta Maine – LincolnHealth is accepting applications for the spring Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class through March 23. The 10-week training course begins April 21 and runs until June 25. The class is offered at no cost to the student, and accepted students can apply to ‘to earn while they learn’ through LincolnHealth’s apprenticeship program.

Once trained, CNAs work directly with patients and residents to provide assistance with activities of daily living and basic needs.

“In just 10 weeks, you will begin a career that is rewarding, in demand and has plenty of options if you choose to advance,” said LincolnHealth CNA instructor Jennifer McIntire, RN, who began her career as a CNA. “CNAs make a heartfelt difference every day for residents and patients.”

Elizabeth Duhamel, a recent graduate, said that the class was interesting and that classmates created a bond. “We became so close and comfortable with each other,’’ the Boothbay resident said. “It didn’t really feel like school. I didn’t dread a day of going there, and the instructor made it fun.”

Tiffany Elwell of Bath said that caring for people and brightening their day is very rewarding. “Being a CNA is not what most people think it is. I think you have to have an open mind about the work. You have to be close to your patients, and if you are just in it for a paycheck, then you’re not in the right field.”

Many of the program’s graduates are currently working at LincolnHealth, providing care at the hospital or in assisted living, long-term care, skilled rehabilitation and memory care facilities. Some graduates have continued their education to become registered nurses, medical assistants, radiologic technologists, or pursued other health care specialties.

Elwell and Duhamel both work on the St. Andrews’ campus, where memory care and nursing care are provided. Each benefitted from being accepted into the Apprenticeship Program.

Students who commit to work at a long-term care facility affiliated with LincolnHealth for 18 months following graduation can earn while they learn. The program is available to select students based on available funding. Although acceptance into the apprenticeship program does not guarantee employment after graduation, every effort is made to place graduates in jobs.

“I would not have been able to take this class without that support,” Elwell said.

The CNA program runs Tuesday through Thursday for 10 weeks. Classroom sessions are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and clinical training days run from 6:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Class size is limited, so it’s a good idea to apply as soon as possible. To request an application, please call the LincolnHealth Education Department at 207-563-4540 or email cna@lchcare.org. For more information, please visit www.lincolnhealthme.org.