How do apprenticeships differ from traditional career tracks?

Our CNA apprenticeship allows you to work in a healthcare setting, while earning money and attending classes. Your work hours are paid.

Do I need healthcare work experience?

No, this program is open to both experienced workers and new hires.

What credentials will I earn?

Upon successful completion, CNA Apprenticeship participants will earn:

• CNA certificate;
• CPR/AED certificate;
• Dementia Care Specialist certificate;
• Essential Soft Skills for Employment badge; and,
• Restorative Specialist certificate OR Preceptor training

What are the program requirements?

Applicants must be 16 years or older (unable to be licensed until 18 years of age) and be able to pass a criminal background check. Your employer or training provider may require a clear drug test. Additionally, applicants must be accepted into a participating training program and receive an employment offer from a participating employer.

What are the participating training programs?

Participating Related Training Instruction (RTI) providers include:

• Lake Michigan College [Benton Harbor, MI]
• Michigan Career & Technical Institute [Benton Harbor, MI]
• Southwestern Michigan College [Dowagiac, MI]
• Van Buren Tech Center [Lawrence, MI]

Who are the participating employers?

CNA Apprenticeship participating employers include:

• Spectrum Health Lakeland
• Randall Residence
• Hallmark Living
• Alliance Home Health Services
• Royalton Manor (Ciena Healthcare)
• Caretel Inns of Lakeland
• The Peplinski Group ( West Woods Bridgman, West Woods Niles, and Meadow Woods)

I am currently employed! How do I complete the requirements of this program?

The program requires your full-time participation, which includes your training (several half-day increments per week) and employment. If you are currently employed with one of the participating employers and are accepted to the program, we will work with you and your employer to determine the class schedule which best fits your personal and work schedule needs.

What are the program expectations?

All apprentices are expected to treat their employment and classes the same:

• Arrive on time;
• Follow attendance policy;
• Maintain a high level of professionalism;
• Effectively manage all obligations; and,
• Commit to work with the employer for a specified period of time after completing the apprenticeship program (length of commitment may vary based on employer).

Will I be paid in this program?

Yes! Participants receive a paycheck from the beginning of their enrollment and earn wages while learning on the job.

How much does the program cost?

Our CNA Apprenticeship program has little-to-no costs, due being paid for on-the-job training. If you are new to the healthcare industry, you may incure costs to obtain appropriate work attire.

How much will I be paid?

Pay depends on, and is determined by, the employer. The starting wage for the CNA apprenticeship program will be above Michigan mininum wage ($9.45/hour).

How many hours per week is the program?

Class times vary. Certain programs have a Monday through Friday commitment, while others meet two or three times per week. Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren staff will work with you to determine the best fit. Remember, you will also be working during this timeframe, and will decided with your employer the best schedule.

Can I take vacation during the program?

The CNA apprenticeship program requires full-time participation. Apprentices are expected to arrive to each class on time.

Is there a commitment to stay with an employer after program completion?

Each employer has varying levels of post-apprenticeship commitment, but there is an expectation that apprentices will continue employment for a period of time after program completion. Failure to work for the agreed-upon time commitment may result in participant having to reimburse program fees.

Where do I submit an application?

The CNA Apprenticeship program application is available here.

What if I am not chosen for this program?

If you are eligible for healthcare employment, there may be opportunities to fund your CNA schooling through other programs at Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren. Otherwise, we would be happy to explore additional career opportunities with you at one of our Michigan Works! Service Centers.

I have a question not listed here.

If you have additional questions, please submit them through the form here.