Those with a passion for helping people can now enroll in the Paul D. Camp Community College nurse aide program in Smithfield.

“We received site approval last week from the Virginia Board of Nursing,” said Dean of Nursing and Allied Health Dr. Debbie Hartman. “We are so excited that we can now let everyone know and begin recruiting for the program.”

The 24-credit program is designed to prepare students for full-time work as nurse assistants. A certified nursing assistant provides basic care to patients in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital or long-term care facility, or even in the homes of patients through home healthcare services.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean pay in Virginia for a CNA in 2016 was between $24,960 and $26,830. The demand to fill these positions is also expected to increase, which means facilities will be looking to fill CNA positions with skilled workers.

“This will provide a convenient location for Isle of Wight and the surrounding area students who want to begin a career in the healthcare profession,” said Hartman. “This is also the beginning of the pathway for the practical nursing and associate’s degree in nursing programs.”

Registration for fall 2017 classes is in progress. Classes start Aug. 21. For more information, contact Carol Griffin, cgriffin@pdc.edu.