According to the Michigan Department of Labor Market Information, the demand for Certified Nursing Assistants will grow by 8% each year. CNAs are essential to patient care. The job is a sustainable lifelong career yet also a stepping stone to other health care jobs.

A new opportunity

With a shortage of health care workers, many organizations across West Michigan offer short-term CNA training programs that help get individuals working quickly. Programs teach students to care for patients in a compassionate manner and get hands-on experience in a nursing home.

Is a career in health care right for you?

This is the right career for you if you are emotionally stable, with an empathetic, caring attitude. You must be able to think critically, follow directions, perform well under stress and enjoy working with people.

Called to serve

“I feel called to be a CNA and help patients who are in their end of life journey or with special needs,” said Trudy Brenner, a CNA program graduate. “A CNA is a major player in the care of a person. You see what’s going on with each patient, things that their doctor or nurse might not see.”

 Are you ready to learn more?

Call (616) 336-4460 the or visit the West Michigan Works! Grand Rapids NW Service Center  to find a CNA program near you.

Looking for other fast growing career opportunities?

Check out the Annual Hot Jobs! for a list of the 100 most in-demand jobs in West Michigan.