PWSC and Providence Valdez Medical Center Continue Partnership to Train Future CNAs
by V. Heisser |
Each year, Prince William Sound College (PWSC) partners with Providence Valdez Medical Center (PVMC) to offer a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) course that prepares students for entry into the healthcare field. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience and is designed to help meet the ongoing demand for skilled CNAs in the region.
Monique Clupper, Nursing Manager at PVMC, helps lead instruction for the CNA course alongside Chris Johnson, a fellow nurse and longtime CNA instructor. Both bring extensive professional experience and a deep commitment to preparing students for meaningful roles in the healthcare field.
"Teaching our CNA program to our local students is truly one of the most enjoyable aspects of my job. Helping provide an introduction to healthcare at any level is very rewarding, and it is very exciting to walk alongside these students as they grow and mature as professional caregivers."
Each year, PVMC opens a number of PRN (as-needed) CNA Trainee positions to individuals accepted into the PWSC course. These positions allow students to gain hands-on experience while earning wages and applying their newly acquired skills in a real-world environment. Many students use the opportunity to explore whether a long-term career in healthcare is right for them.
PVMC’s tuition reimbursement program helps reduce financial barriers for new trainees. Individuals hired into the CNA Trainee role before the start of the class may be eligible for full tuition reimbursement, provided they complete certification within 120 days and work a minimum number of shifts per pay period. This model not only supports student success but also helps PVMC develop a local, homegrown healthcare workforce.
CNA course participants are taught essential caregiving skills, including how to safely assist patients with personal hygiene, nutrition, and mobility, as well as how to monitor for subtle changes in their health. In addition to learning from PWSC instructors, students complete clinical rotations at PVMC, where they gain firsthand experience working with patients and medical staff.
"Having a career as a CNA is extremely valuable, and this program, in partnership with PWSC, is also an excellent first step into healthcare. Students may decide to remain a CNA or may choose to enter the nursing program or explore various other options in healthcare. Our country desperately needs healthcare workers now more than ever, and the partnership between PWSC and Providence in Valdez is our best recruiting tool for rural hospital caregivers in Valdez."
PWSC and PVMC encourage anyone interested in the healthcare field to consider the CNA course as a first step. Whether a student’s goal is to work in long-term care, continue toward nursing school, or simply learn how to better support loved ones, the CNA program provides a strong foundation.
CNA Trainee Details – Providence Valdez Medical Center
Tuition Reimbursement: Full tuition is reimbursed for CNA Trainees hired before the course commencement. Trainees must pass the certification exam within 120 days of course completion and work a minimum of 2 shifts per pay period for 1 year after graduation. If certification or work requirements are not met, the reimbursement is forfeited.
Other Costs (not covered by PVMC): Certification exam fee, course materials, uniforms, and specific application requirements (such as fingerprinting, ID photos, and notarization).
Employment Pathway: Trainees are encouraged to apply to open CNA Trainee positions listed on the PVMC jobs website.
Program Goal: Prepare students for certification and entry into the healthcare field, while supporting local workforce needs.
PWSC is proud to continue its partnership with Providence Valdez Medical Center, delivering high-quality healthcare training that benefits both students and the community.
For current CNA course offerings and application details, visit the PWSC/UAA course catalog, call 907-834-1600, or email the PWSC Admissions Office at pwsc.admissions@alaska.edu.