STCC receives $137,966 state grant to expand CNA Training

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College has received a $137,966 grant from the Healey-Driscoll Administration to support and expand its Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program.

The funding, part of the state’s $1.5 million Training Resources and Internships Network (TRAIN) grant initiative, is aimed at preparing more than 500 unemployed and under-employed Massachusetts residents for careers in high-demand industries.

The TRAIN grant supports community colleges across the Commonwealth in offering skills-based training and wraparound services to help adult learners successfully transition into the workforce. STCC's award will enable the college to provide CNA training to more participants, bolstering the pipeline of skilled professionals entering the health care field.

The CNA program at STCC has experienced steady growth in recent years. In fiscal year 2022, 39 students completed the program. That number nearly doubled in fiscal year 2023 with 72 completers, and rose to 131 in fiscal year 2024 – reflecting increasing demand for training and a growing interest in health care careers among adult learners.

“This investment allows us to expand our workforce training programs and offer vital opportunities to adult learners in our community,” Assistant Vice President of Workforce Development Gladys Franco. “Certified Nursing Assistants are essential in the health care system, and this funding helps ensure that more individuals can access training for a stable, meaningful career path.”

Franco expressed gratitude to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for supporting the CNA program at STCC.

“With this funding, STCC is poised to continue delivering on its mission to provide affordable, high-quality education and workforce development that supports both students and the broader regional economy,” Franco said.

The CNA program at STCC prepares students for entry-level roles in hospitals, long-term care facilities and home health settings. In addition to technical instruction, the program incorporates career readiness and support services that help students persist through training and transition into employment.

The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the TRAIN grants during a statewide rollout that highlighted community colleges’ vital role in workforce development. The CNA program is one of several health care-focused training opportunities being funded, as the state works to meet growing demand in the sector.

“Community colleges are at the heart of workforce development in Massachusetts,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “Through this investment, we are creating pathways for adult learners to thrive – both in the classroom and in high-demand careers.”

Gov. Maura Healey echoed the importance of accessible training, stating, “These TRAIN grants will connect hundreds of community college students to the skills, support, and opportunities they need to succeed in growing industries and help ensure our economy works for everyone.”

For more information on CNA training at STCC, visit www.stcc.edu/wdc.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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