Free CNA program at Central AHEC empowers students for healthcare careers

The APP Higher Education Subcommittee Public Hearing convened on February 19, 2025, to discuss various aspects of higher education programs in Connecticut, with a particular focus on the impact of free training initiatives in the medical field.

The meeting featured a testimony from a participant in the Central AHEC's free Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. The individual shared their journey from being a group home manager for 16 years to pursuing a career in healthcare. They expressed excitement upon discovering the program through a flyer at work, highlighting the importance of affordable education in the current economic climate. The participant noted that the program's flexible night hours allowed them to balance their studies with personal commitments.

During their testimony, they emphasized the rigorous interview process and the supportive environment provided by the AHEC program, which helped them achieve their goal of becoming a registered nurse. The participant praised the program's structure, which included both classroom learning and clinical experiences at Avon Healthcare Center. They shared how the knowledge gained and the encouragement from instructors boosted their confidence, ultimately leading to their current position as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the medical ICU.

The testimony underscored the significance of accessible training programs in empowering individuals to pursue careers in healthcare, particularly for those facing financial barriers. The participant concluded by expressing gratitude to the AHEC program for its role in their professional development.

Following this testimony, Melanie Newport, an associate professor of history at UConn, was scheduled to speak, indicating a continuation of discussions on educational initiatives and their broader implications for the community. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance educational opportunities and support for students in Connecticut's healthcare sector.