As America’s healthcare system faces a deepening staffing crisis, a new wave of CNA training programs is stepping up to meet the demand. With an aging population and a shrinking long-term care workforce, the need for certified nursing assistants (CNAs) has never been more urgent.
That’s why organizations like Dwyer Workforce Development are expanding efforts to train and place thousands of new CNAs by 2030—and 3B Healthcare proudly supports this mission.
Why CNA Training Matters in 2025
The statistics are stark:
- 99% of U.S. nursing homes report staffing shortages.
- 73% rely on temporary workers to fill daily care gaps.
- Demand for elder care continues to rise as people live longer.
Certified nursing assistants are essential in delivering hands-on care, and CNA training programs in 2025 are proving to be the most scalable solution for addressing this national healthcare workforce challenge.
Meet Dwyer Workforce Development
Dwyer Workforce Development (DWD) is a Maryland-based nonprofit focused on training underserved individuals for high-demand healthcare roles. The organization collaborates with accredited training institutions and care facilities to offer free CNA certification, job placement, and long-term career support.
Since launching, DWD has trained over 9,000 CNAs and is now targeting 100,000 new nurse aides by 2030.
Expanding Reach Across the U.S.
Dwyer has recently expanded into four additional states:
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- Delaware
- Kansas
It currently operates in Maryland, Texas, and Florida, and plans to enter two more states by the end of 2025.
This growing footprint reflects a broader strategy: to address healthcare staffing shortages at scale while helping individuals build life-changing careers in care.
What Makes Dwyer’s Program Stand Out?
Dwyer doesn’t just train CNAs—it supports entire career journeys.
Program Benefits:
- Free CNA & GNA certification
- Guaranteed job placement support
- Wraparound services: housing, childcare, transportation
- Nursing school scholarships
- Ongoing training & career advancement
Participants become Dwyer Scholars, receiving the resources, mentorship, and financial support they need to succeed long term—not just get a job.
“Our goal is to change lives—and to help solve the healthcare staffing crisis,” says DWD CEO Barb Clapp.
3B Healthcare: Training Is at Our Core
At 3B Healthcare, we believe that investing in clinician growth leads to better outcomes—for patients, families, and communities.
That’s why we support initiatives like Dwyer Workforce Development. The training and development of our clinicians isn’t just something we value—it’s a core part of our identity.
We are proud to stand behind programs that help build a resilient healthcare workforce. Because when caregivers are empowered and equipped, everyone receives better care.
Looking Ahead: Goals for 2025 and Beyond
Dwyer’s long-term plans include:
- Creating a Career Services Department to support upskilling and career progression.
- Expanding services beyond nursing homes into hospitals and community-based care.
- Deepening partnerships with care facilities to improve training outcomes and hiring pipelines.
The Future of Care Begins With CNA Training
As CNA training programs evolve in 2025, they’re not only solving urgent staffing problems—they’re creating sustainable, meaningful career paths for thousands.
At 3B Healthcare, we’re committed to being part of that solution—because a better-trained workforce is the future of healthcare.
Looking to understand how hospitals are preparing their workforce for the future? Don’t miss our in-depth guide on Hospital Nursing Strategy Priorities 2025, where we explore the top focus areas shaping nursing leadership, workforce planning, and patient safety initiatives in the year ahead.
It’s a short-term healthcare program that prepares individuals to become Certified Nursing Assistants, typically through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
Yes! Eligible students can complete CNA and GNA certification at no cost through Dwyer Workforce Development, with full support throughout the process.
Individuals from low-income or underserved communities who are interested in healthcare careers.
Most CNA programs can be completed in 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the state and training provider.
Absolutely. Dwyer provides job placement, case management, and career mentorship to ensure every Scholar starts strong.
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