CareerEdge announces another tuition free Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) FastTrack with Suncoast Technical College

(Mar. 5, 2024) – Sarasota, FL.  CareerEdge is partnering with Suncoast Technical College (STC) to offer a free CNA fastTrack program which will launch in April. The workforce development initiative of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, CareerEdge, continuously seeks innovative programs and techniques to support local businesses. In this most recent partnering, CareerEdge and STC address a major national issue, the nursing shortage, in a local way. This effort supports the academic institution’s mission to help prepare the next generation of nurses while providing an opportunity for individuals in the community to gain foundational knowledge and join the healthcare industry.

The curriculum for this opportunity will be a condensed version of STC’s Certified Nursing Assistant program.  The tuition-free FastTrack begins April 30, 2024, and runs through June 6, 2024 with classes held Monday-Friday from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm at STC’s main campus 4748 Beneva Road Sarasota, FL 34233.  Additionally, Sarasota Memorial Hospital will host the participants for Clinical training during the last two weeks from 6:30 am to 1:30 pm. which enhances the real-world nature of their education. The program will also include CareerEdge’s Bridges to Careers soft skills training where participants learn additional aspects of professionalism.

Interested applicants need to apply for the free program and interview with CareerEdge staff.  Those selected will be notified.  Eligibility requirements include a GED or high school diploma, must be Sarasota or Manatee County resident, apply by Friday, March 29^th and pass a background and drug test prior to starting the training.  Participants are responsible for paying for their application fee, certification exam fee, fingerprint testing, and drug screening, reimbursable upon passing the exam. Participants must also complete a medical clearance, provide proof of certain immunizations, and are responsible for covering expenses associated with these steps.  No technical experience is required for this training.  The program is limited to only 15 participants.  For more information go to https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/

Funding for the program is made possible by CareerEdge Funders Collaborative and the generous support from its funders and with the support of the local health care business community.