Renown Health's CNA Apprenticeship is a paid, four-month program with Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) that trains you to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA) with tuition, books and initial tests covered. Discover the seven reasons why becoming a CNA could be your ideal path to a fulfilling healthcare career.
CNAs provide hands-on care under the supervision of a licensed nurse. They help patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing and eating, take vital signs, watch for and report changes in a patient's condition, and offer comfort and support. At Renown, apprentices gain hands-on experience in a hospital setting, preparing them for patient care roles on nursing units. It's hands-on, meaningful work that makes a difference for patients and families in our community every day.
Renown partners with TMCC to cover tuition, books and initial tests, so you can go to school and work as a paid CNA apprentice at the same time, learning alongside our care teams from the start.
You don't need any prior experience to apply, but the program is competitive. You'll need full-time availability during training and availability for night shifts afterward. Current Renown employees are welcome to apply, too.
Becoming a CNA requires minimal training to start and opportunities to continue learning while on the job. Renown’s CNA Apprenticeship Program is four months and offers paid training while you learn, making the transition into healthcare even more available.
CNA certification is one of the most cost-effective ways to enter the healthcare field. Renown’s CNA apprenticeship program pays $18/hour for classroom and clinical hours, as well as covers your tuition, books and initial tests. This helps to reduce the financial burden so you can earn while you learn!
CNA education focuses on hands-on training you can immediately apply in real-world settings. You'll learn essential clinical skills such as taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living and recognizing changes in patient conditions. The practical nature of CNA work means you'll see the direct impact of your skills on patient comfort and wellbeing from the very start of your career.
Starting as a CNA provides opportunities for career growth. Many CNAs go on to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), or specialize in care areas. The hands-on experience you gain as a CNA is a good foundation for future healthcare roles.
As a CNA, you'll work closely with patients, providing essential daily care and emotional support. This direct patient interaction allows you to make a real difference in people's lives every day. Many CNAs cite these meaningful connections as the most rewarding aspect of their work.
CNAs have the flexibility to work in various settings at Renown, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, home health and clinics. This variety allows you to find an environment that best suits your preferences and career goals.
The skills you develop as a CNA including compassion, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, are valuable in all aspects of life. The role challenges you to grow both personally and professionally while making a positive impact on healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
Visit the CNA Apprenticeship page to apply when applications open, or join our Talent Network to hear about future apprenticeships. Questions? Email recruitment@renown.org. Your healthcare career can start here, and we can't wait to welcome you to the team.
Renown welcomes new CNA apprentices in cohorts. Applications for the spring 2027 cohort run Friday, Oct. 31 to Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, and the program begins Monday, March 1, 2027. Dates change each cohort, so check the CNA Apprenticeship page for the current timeline
Training can take as little as one semester. TMCC's CNA course is offered within one semester, and Renown's paid apprenticeship takes four months. After training, allow time to complete the required exams and certification process. The Nevada State Board of Nursing notes that receiving official fingerprint results can take up to four months.
Costs typically include tuition, books, exam fees, fingerprinting and the Nevada State Board of Nursing's application fee. In Renown's apprenticeship, Renown covers tuition, books and initial tests and pays you $18 an hour while you train.
Nevada requires two: a written knowledge exam and a clinical skills exam. You must pass both to be certified.
No. There are no prerequisites to apply, but the program is competitive and requires full-time availability during training and night shift availability afterward.
No. Apply to Renown. If you're selected, Renown will guide you through enrolling at TMCC.
