Certified Nursing Assistant

Job Outlook: This career field is estimated to grow by 4% in the next decade (2023-2033), meaning it is expected to have 62,000+ new jobs come available in that time.

National Average Wage: $39,530 (this will vary by position and state)

Building a Stable, Rewarding Career as a Certified Nursing Assistant

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) offers a practical entry point into the healthcare field, combining hands-on patient care with strong job stability. Because CNAs provide essential day-to-day support in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings, the demand for qualified professionals remains steady even as healthcare needs evolve.

From a career-growth perspective, the outlook for CNAs is encouraging. Projections show the field expanding by about 4% between 2023 and 2033, which translates to more than 62,000 new positions opening up over that span. For anyone weighing long-term job security, that kind of sustained demand is a meaningful signal that the profession isn't going anywhere.

Financially, CNA work offers a solid foundation, with a national average wage of $39,530 — though actual pay can shift depending on location, employer, and specific role. Beyond the paycheck, the position also serves as a valuable stepping stone: many CNAs use the experience and training as a launchpad toward further credentials in nursing or allied health, making it both an accessible and forward-looking career choice.

Why Providence Is the Right Place to Start Your CNA Career

Choosing Providence to launch your CNA career means having a mission-driven organization behind you every step of the way. Through the ProvidenceReady program, aspiring CNAs gain access to hands-on learning experiences, educational assistance, apprenticeships, and career exploration opportunities designed to turn potential into a fulfilling profession. Grounded in values of compassion, dignity, justice, excellence, and integrity, Providence doesn't just offer a job — it offers a supportive community invested in your growth, with additional education benefits available through its Guild partnership to help you keep advancing long after you become certified.