CNA Apprenticeship Program

The WDC is developing a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) that will create a clear, supportive pathway for community members to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). This program is currently in process as WDC builds the partnerships, training structure, and support systems needed for a high-quality apprenticeship program.

WDC will serve as the Program Sponsor, partnering with:

Two home health companies
Employers hiring apprentices as W-2 employees and providing on-the-job training

A CNA training school
State-approved provider delivering CNA classroom instruction and clinical hours

This apprenticeship is designed specifically for immigrant, refugee, and underserved workers who want to move from low-wage personal care roles into higher-paying, credentialed healthcare careers.

What the Program Will Provide

Paid on-the-job training with two partnering home health companies

List item 2CNA coursework and clinical training through a state-approved CNA training school

Starting wages of $19.21/hour

CPR and First Aid certification

Culturally responsive mentorship, coaching, and navigation support

Translation and interpretation, including language-accessible materials

Career pathways leading to roles such as LPN and RN

Why This Matters

Colorado faces a significant shortage of CNAs, and many talented workers—especially immigrants and refugees—cannot afford training, lack language support, or remain stuck in minimum-wage personal care positions.
WDC’s apprenticeship removes these barriers by offering paid training, cultural and language support, and a direct pathway to stable, living-wage healthcare employment.

Program Status

The CNA Apprenticeship Program is currently in development. WDC is finalizing state registration, building curriculum and translation supports, and preparing employer partners for apprentice supervision and mentorship. Recruitment will begin once the program is officially ready.

Stay Connected

To receive updates, join the interest list, or explore employer partnership opportunities, please contact:
maya@yourwdc.org