CareerEdge Opens Applications for Three Tuition-Free Training Programs

December 20, 2024 | Sarasota

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative, a program of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce three tuition-free FastTrack training programs to address the growing need for skilled CNAs, plumbers and HVAC technicians in our community. Classes begin in early 2025. Applications for these training programs are now open at www.CareerEdgeFunders.org.

According to the Bureau of Workforce Statistics and Economic Research, Workforce Projections data the Manatee & Sarasota area will need over 5,000 CNAs, almost 1,600 plumbers and almost 1,400 HVAC technicians by 2031.  These estimates, created using the separation method, incorporate a base employment year plus past growth trends, using additional data to project growth and replacement openings in any given occupation.  Sarasota and Manatee County face a looming workforce supply and demand issue. 

CareerEdge, with Dwyer Workforce Development (DWD), and Meridian West Central College (MWCC) will offer a tuition free hybrid learning CNA class launching in February.  Dwyer Workforce Development is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing healthcare training to communities and better care for seniors.  DWD offers free case management and need-based wraparound services, such as financial support for housing, childcare, transportation, scholarships, and more.  Meridian West Central College, a local private school licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, will provide 120-hour program to prepare individuals for entry-level nursing work in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and/or private duty settings. 

This program is taught in English, with a combination of lecture, discussion, hands-on practical lab exercises, and real-world clinical experience conducted off-campus at local nursing/rehab facilities. The tuition-free FastTrack begins February 3, 2025, and runs through April 11, 2025, with AM and PM classes available.  Morning classes are held Monday – Wednesday online, Thursday in person, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. In-person classes take place at Meridian West Central College campus 201 Montgomery Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34243.  Evening classes occur from 5:00 to 9:00pm with the same model, three days of online instruction and one day of in-person practice. The program will also include CareerEdge’s Bridges to Careers soft skills training where participants learn additional aspects of professionalism, including interview, and resume building skills. The goal of the program is to address the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in our community by providing an opportunity for Sarasota and Manatee County to start a fulfilling career in healthcare without the financial burden. 

In response to the demand for qualified HVAC and plumbing professionals, CareerEdge and American Vocational Academy (AVA) combined effort to make education accessible to Sarasota and Manatee County residents.  This program, like the CNA course, is made tuition-free through CareerEdge’s gracious funders, and provides thorough hands-on training, industry-relevant coursework, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring participants are well-equipped to excel in their future careers.  Graduates of the program will earn industry recognized credentials, while receiving wholistic instruction on character, leadership, professionalism and financial literacy.

Applicants must be at least 17 years of age and have a High School diploma or GED.  HVAC class is taught from 8am to 1230pm, while the plumbing course takes place in the afternoon from 1pm to 530pm.  Classes meet every Tuesday through Friday starting January 17^th and ending on April 18^rd at American Vocational Academy, 1080 Enterprise Ct. Unit D, Nokomis, FL 34725.  Apply before Jan. 1, 2025. 

Enrollment for all programs is open. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply at https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/, spaces are limited, and candidates will be selected based on their motivation, aptitude, and potential to thrive in these high demand occupation as determined by CareerEdge staff. 

A 2024 graduate described the program’s impact, “CareerEdge opened many doors for me, with people and opportunities.  They made the impossible possible.  I can’t express it in words, but it made my vision make sense personally and professionally.”