City of Cambridge, MA
11/10/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/10/2025 11:20
From Job Training Program to College to Career — the Journey of a Student in the CLC's Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program
Participating in a job training program can help you get a job and start a new career.
Nigus was a public health worker in Ethiopia before he moved to the U.S. in 2018. He got a job as a cashier in Cambridge but wanted more than a job - he wanted a career.
After working for a few years in Cambridge, Nigus enrolled in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program for English Language Learners at the Community Learning Center (CLC). Students in the program take classes twice a week at the CLC to help them improve their English and clinical classes once a week at Labouré College of Healthcare in Milton.
"Taking the training was a turning point," said Nigus. "If someone wants to get into healthcare, it can be really helpful."
After finishing his CNA training, Nigus got a job as a Patient Care Associate at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). This job allowed him to build his patient care and communication skills, while also improving his English.
In the fall, he started taking pre-nursing classes at Bunker Hill Community College. Then, with support from MGH, Nigus enrolled at the Institute of Health Professions to earn a nursing degree. He got a scholarship from MGH and the Friends of the CLC to help him pay for college. In September 2024, Nigus passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and officially began his career as a Registered Nurse (RN) at MGH.
Doing the CNA Training Program helped Nigus launch a career in healthcare. "I recommend doing the CNA training if you are interested in healthcare. It's never too late to pursue your dreams, and the CLC's guidance can make a significant difference."
Do you want a career in healthcare? The next CNA Training Program for English Language Learners starts in February 2026. Learn more about our CNA Training Programs and sign up for an information session!
Photo caption: Nigus (center) in a CNA Training Program class.
City of Cambridge, MA published this content on November 10, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on November 10, 2025 at 17:20 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]