Ashley George knew the path she wanted to take, she just wasn’t sure how she would get there. Thankfully, CMC’s Apprenticeship Program helped her map the way.
With nearly eight years of experience in homecare, Ashley aspired to take the next step in her career. But, as a single mom, it seemed impossible to balance school, work and expenses. “When my homecare client entered hospice care it was perfect time to make a transition,” recalls Ashley. “I was inquiring with my aunt, who is a nurse at CMC, if she knew of any opportunities and she mentioned the LNA Apprenticeship Program. It sounded like a perfect match.”
CMC, in partnership with ApprenticeshipNH and the Community College System of New Hampshire, has developed a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) Apprenticeship Program. The six-week program, a blend of classroom, on-line courses, lab and clinical work and on the job training, helps prepare students to earn a New Hampshire Nursing Assistant License and enter a full-time position at CMC.
“This is a win-win for the students and for CMC,” says Holly Mailloux, MSN, RN, CCRN, Director, External Education & Staffing Support Services. “There is simply a huge talent shortage nationwide, in the state and locally. This program can offer a life-changing opportunity for the participants and help us fill vital patient care roles.”
“The fact that you become a full-time CMC employee, with a salary and benefits, from day one of the program made all the difference to me,” adds Ashley. “It was the perfect opportunity with the resources I needed.”
Ashley is now a full-time LNA in the float pool, where she is involved in variety of patient care experiences within several hospital units. She is hopeful her experience will help her land in the emergency department.
“Ashley is a shining example of how this ‘earn while you learn’ model—making a livable wage while gaining valuable work experience—can make all the difference in someone’s life,” says Holly. “Apprenticeship programs also show how health organizations can work together to create opportunities for our community and our citizens. Our intent is for apprentices to be long-term employees by investing in their training and their futures.”
In addition to LNAs, CMC also offers a Medical Assistant Apprenticeship Program and is actively exploring more career paths that could be a fit for apprenticeships and help the organization prepare to meet our future workforce needs.
“I am doing what I am compassionate about,” smiles Ashley. “I want my daughter, and people who are considering applying to the program, to know anything is possible and it happen.”