After serving in the U.S. Army Reserve, Kayla Smith decided she wanted to start a new career path that would be sustainable. In August 2018, she contacted the Arkansas Workforce Center at Conway for assistance on pursuing her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Once approved to participate in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) training program, she met with Ashlee Ennis, Career Consultant, to address her goals. As a single parent, her concerns mainly focused on obtaining training so she could be more marketable in the workforce and provide for her family.
Accordingly, Kayla enrolled in the CNA class provided by MedLinc on August 27, 2018. This class additionally provided a Phlebotomy course that added an extra benefit to assist her in providing patient care in the Healthcare Industry. On September 20, 2018, Kayla completed the class and obtained her CNA and Phlebotomy Certificate. Shortly after, she took and passed her Prometric Exam and became a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Furthermore, upon completion of the occupational skills training program, St Andrews Place Therapy and Living Center in Conway hired Kayla as a Certified Nursing Assistant making $11.50 an hour. Today she plays an important role in health care and loves her job.
Overall, she was able to reach her goals and stated “If you think you are in a situation that cannot improve, with hard work and dedication, you can make a positive change! Reach out and seek programs that are available in your area. You never know where it can take you!”
