Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy today announced the launch of a new certified nursing aide (CNA) training program, developed as a proactive response to the projected shortage of nearly 40,000 nurses in New York State by 2030. 

Approved by the New York State Education Department and located at Shaker Place Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, this paid, three-week, full-time course is taught in both the classroom and clinical settings. Through hands-on coursework, trainees learn how to provide safe, compassionate care and basic life support while assisting with non-medical services, such as everyday personal and dietary needs. Upon successful completion of the program, students are prepared to take and pass the New York State Department of Health CNA exam to earn their certification and begin their career in healthcare as a full-time Shaker Place employee. 

Albany County is offering the program at no cost to enrollees, who are paid while in training, to reduce financial barriers for those unable to afford training and encourage more to enter the field at a time when the workforce deficit is critical. As required by New York State Public Health Law and Regulations, nursing homes must meet minimum staffing standards of 3.5 hours of care per resident per day by a CNA, licensed practical nurse, or registered nurse. 

“The health and wellbeing of those in our community and in our care are dependent on a strong, capable workforce,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “Albany County is committed to investing in programs such as this to ensure we’re producing qualified and confident certified nursing assistants who will provide the best possible care for nursing home residents. What better way to deliver that care than to educate and train our CNAs in the environment where they have a job waiting for them.” 

“With the well-documented shortage of nursing staff nationally and here in New York, Shaker Place is taking a proactive approach to staffing by getting approved by New York State to administer the nurse aide training program to current and new staff members,” said Mark Olsen, executive director of Shaker Place Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. “The interest in this training and certification program has been significant and will play a vital part in ensuring adequate staffing levels for years to come.”

“Through our comprehensive nurse training program, we empower caregivers to grow, lead, and provide outstanding care to those who need it most,” said Rebecca Provost, director of nursing at Shaker Place Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Mary Hebert, a Shaker Place employee, was the first to enroll in the inaugural cohort and has high expectations for the program and of herself. “This is just the first step toward what I hope is a long and successful career in nursing,” said Hebert. “I’ve enjoyed working at Shaker Place and am looking forward to learning as much as I can, furthering my education, and assisting residents as best I can. I’m not just doing this for myself but for my daughter.” 

Applications for upcoming sessions are currently being accepted. For more information, including course details and expectations, visit www.shakerplace.org/training.

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Pic- CE McCoy speaks to participants in the CAN Training Program at Shaker Place.