STL Training CNA Apprenticeship Program

Instruction covers the core areas expected of a CNA, including basic nursing skills, resident care, infection control, communication techniques, emergency procedures, and patient rights. The program also includes soft skills training such as time management, teamwork, and professional communication—skills often overlooked in shorter CNA courses.

While the training is intensive, it’s also structured with consistency. Students typically follow the same weekly rhythm: one day of classroom learning, two days of clinicals, and two paid work shifts. This format allows students to apply what they learn in real-time, reinforcing concepts through repetition and real-world exposure.

The classroom content prepares students for both the state-written examination and the skills practicum required to be listed on the Missouri CNA Registry. The final practicum includes a minimum two-hour hands-on assessment, and students must pass with at least an 80% on all written exams to be eligible.

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Graduates who complete the program and pass both the written and skills exams are added to the Missouri State Certified Nurse Assistant Registry. They also receive a Certificate of Apprenticeship from the U.S. Department of Labor. This may provide a hiring advantage in the future, especially with employers who recognize the value of apprenticeship training.

In terms of job outcomes, the program is designed to feed directly into employment. Since students are hired by a participating facility at the beginning of the program, many continue working at that facility after certification. However, job placement after certification is not formally guaranteed.

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Applicants must meet several eligibility criteria before being accepted into the program. These include a combination of academic, physical, and legal requirements.

• Must be 18 years or older
• High school diploma, transcript, GED, or HSE
• Negative urine drug screen
• Negative TB test
• Physical exam with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Clean background check with Family Care Safety Registry clearance
• Acceptable scores on the WorkKeys assessment
• Proof of immunizations and Hepatitis B vaccination
• Intermediate English proficiency is recommended

Applicants must also attend a required information session, after which they will be scheduled for a WorkKeys assessment (if not already completed), and a job interview with a partnering facility. Admission is contingent upon securing employment through this interview process.

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STL Training does not charge tuition for this program, but students must qualify for financial assistance through grants or workforce programs. Most applicants go through the Missouri Job Center or related agencies. The most common funding source is the Health Professions Opportunity Grant (HPOG), which covers all training materials, instruction, and exam costs.

To begin the application process, students must:

1. Fill out the STL Training application form online.
2. Attend a required information session and job interview.
3. Submit documentation for funding eligibility, including photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, and educational credentials.
4. Complete the WorkKeys assessment and background check.

The application process can take time, especially when coordinating with job centers, so students should prepare to navigate multiple steps before training begins.

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The program is organized around a consistent and predictable weekly schedule. While dates may vary slightly between cohorts, the training usually follows this structure:

• Classroom sessions: Once per week, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM at South Tech
• Clinical sessions: Twice per week, 6:45 AM – 3:15 PM at healthcare facilities
• Paid work shifts: Two per week, schedules vary by employer

The total time commitment is significant, particularly with the addition of paid work. While this makes the program immersive and experience-rich, it may be difficult for students balancing other work or family responsibilities.

The final week includes the CNA knowledge exam and skills exam. These are held at South Tech and are required for certification.

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One of the biggest strengths of this program is the apprenticeship model. It gives students a chance to gain real work experience while completing their education, which can be especially helpful for learners who want hands-on exposure. The fact that the program is offered at no cost to eligible students is another major benefit, especially compared to private CNA programs that may cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket.

The structured scheduling and strict attendance policy can also be seen as both a strength and a limitation. On one hand, it promotes discipline and ensures students meet all requirements. On the other, it doesn’t leave much flexibility for those who may have inconsistent schedules or need evening/weekend classes.

The program also requires a relatively long list of application steps and documentation. While necessary, these hurdles could slow down the process for some applicants or create barriers for those unfamiliar with grant funding systems.

Finally, while students are hired and paid during training, it’s worth noting that job placement after the program isn’t formally guaranteed. Continued employment is likely but not assured.

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