MaineHealth is offering a certified nursing assistant (CNA) apprenticeship training program, providing a paid pathway for individuals interested in beginning a health care career. 

The upcoming session of the six-week program will be held Nov. 9 through Dec. 17 at the MaineHealth Lincoln Hospital Education Center in Damariscotta. Training takes place four to five days per week and includes classroom instruction, hands-on skills labs and clinical experience at local hospitals and long-term care facilities.

The CNA apprenticeship program is a collaborative effort between Maine Adult Education and MaineHealth. Participants are hired as CNA apprentices at either MaineHealth Lincoln Hospital or MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital and paid during training. They are also eligible for benefits, provided they agree to a one-year work commitment following successful completion of the program. 

To be considered, applicants must attend a required virtual information session via Microsoft Teams. Sessions will be held:

• Thursday, Sept. 3, 6-7 p.m. 

• Thursday, Sept. 17, 10-11 a.m. 

During the information sessions, attendees will learn about the application process, program requirements and next steps. They can also complete their registration for the program. 

Following the session, candidates will be contacted to schedule the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS) exam, which must be passed at a 9th-grade reading level. 

To apply, candidates should visit careersatmainehealth.org and search for “CNA Apprentice” and the Damariscotta location. 

For more information, contact cna@mainehealth.org.