ELY- Are you interested in pursuing a rewarding career as a certified nursing assistant, or CNA? The Boundary Waters Care Center is now offering free on-site training and other compensation for those interested in undergoing training to obtain the necessary certification.
In addition to paying for the training, the Boundary Waters Care Center will compensate trainees for their hours spent in training. Once a student has completed the CNA program, BWCC will cover the cost of the skills and knowledge test that is required by the state of Minnesota for nursing assistant to pass for certification.
CNAs are a critical part of any health care team, but are significantly more essential in long-term, skilled care environments. These professionals provide direct, personalized care to patients and residents. CNAs collaborate closely with nurses, therapists, and other departments to provide quality care for those they serve.
The CNA program at BWCC is led by Sally Koski, a registered nurse who holds a Ph.D. in nursing and is a retired professor of nursing who taught at the College of St. Scholastica. Koski designed the CNA training program at BWCC, which is unique to the Ely area. Koski teaches in-person skills labs to each CNA-in-training along with assigning online courses. She also matches each student with a peer mentor who is one of BWCC’s existing CNAs. This mentor provides thorough orientation and on-the-job training to enhance personal skills and competencies.
“I’ve customized BWCC’s program to be self-paced for each person. We keep the schedule flexible to work around each CNA-in-training’s current schedule and family needs,” said Koski. “The program typically takes about three to four months, but a very motivated individual can achieve it in less time.”
“The CNA training program at Boundary Waters Care Center is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in a nursing or caregiving career,” said BWCC executive director Adam Masloski. “Once certified, our CNAs-in-training qualify for a $3,000 sign-on bonus and a pay raise. We also have scholarships and tuition reimbursement available and school-friendly scheduling for team members who want to pursue more education.”
BWCC is a 503(c)3 nonprofit 24-hour skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and hospice facility in Ely which shares the same building complex with the Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital. The BWCC community serves older adults and their families with short-term rehabilitation services and long-term care designed to ensure residents may safely lead a lifestyle with as much independence as possible. More information about BWCC is available at boundarywaterscc.com or 218-365-8043.