March 3, 2021 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- GRCC Workforce Training offers programs providing in-demand skills leading to rewarding careers. Each Wednesday we’ll meet students who are heading down an educational pathway and changing their lives by earning occupational certificates.
Liz Jeknavorian has faced obstacles with an optimism.
Originally from Athens, Greece, Jeknavorian became a single mother of three shortly after arriving in Grand Rapids. She got an entry level job with a local retailer, but knew the work could not pay enough to support her family.
Jeknavorian was a nurse in Greece, but discovered it would take her years to be registered in Michigan. That is when the Grand Rapids Community College Certified Nursing Assistant program became her lifeline.
“This training saved my life!” she said. “The training was hands-on and easy to understand. The instructor was so kind and I made many friends. The best part was that GRCC set up job interviews for us at the end of the training. I couldn’t believe it.”
The CNA program is well-respected by West Michigan employers. Workforce Training program managers work with local healthcare providers to develop hands-on training that exceeds the state's minimum training requirements.
Certified nursing assistants perform many basic care tasks for patients, and assist the nursing staff with medical tasks like taking blood, monitoring vitals with medical equipment and reporting patient behavior and wellbeing.
Students in the program meet with a career coach to help navigate educational and workforce systems complete assessments to target their best career path.
After completing the program and passing the CNA exam for the State of Michigan, students are in demand.
While working as a CNA, Jeknavorian returned to the retailer, but in a new role. In Meijer's specialized pharmacy, she advocates for patients and coordinates with insurance companies to ensure patients' medical needs are met. She credits her certification for getting an interview for the position.
“My CNA certification got me a seat at the table,” she said. “Once I interviewed, I was hired as a patient service coordinator. I was recently promoted to clinical care coordinator. I love my job so much! Helping people is truly who I am and what I want to be doing. GRCC has helped me beyond measure.”
Anyone interested in gaining career skills through GRCC Workforce Training can connect via email at workforcetraining@grcc.edu, and by phone at (616) 234-3800. Additional information is at grcc.edu/programs/job-workforce-training.
