Williams Career School Launches Tuition-Free CNA Training Program
Williams Career School of Excellence (WCSE) has announced a partnership with Dwyer Workforce Development (DWD) to provide tuition-free training for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). This initiative aims to alleviate the healthcare staffing crisis by offering comprehensive support to students, enabling them to pursue careers in healthcare without the burden of debt.
The collaboration is designed to create opportunities for students, known as Dwyer Scholars, by offering not only free CNA training but also vital resources to help them thrive in their careers. DWD addresses common barriers such as transportation, childcare, housing, and food insecurity. In addition, students will receive case management assistance and job placement support, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce.
Lora Williams, Founder of WCSE, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “My personal experience training as a CNA and witnessing firsthand how healthcare can transform lives inspired me to deliver high-quality education to others facing challenges similar to those I once faced.” She noted that the partnership with DWD allows WCSE to focus on student success and remove obstacles that often impede their progress.
The demand for CNA training in Central Texas is significant. According to recent data, the number of certified nursing aides in Hays County has decreased by 28% from 2015 to 2024. Since initiating their pilot program in 2024, WCSE and DWD have successfully trained nearly 100 CNAs, contributing to a growing pipeline of healthcare professionals in the region. This effort addresses a projected shortage of 57,000 skilled nurses in Texas over the next decade.
The initiative aligns with the state’s goal of ensuring 60% of Texans earn post-secondary “credentials of value,” equipping them with the skills necessary for stable, well-paying jobs. Barb Clapp, CEO of Dwyer Workforce Development, remarked, “Cities across the country are facing critical shortages of skilled healthcare professionals, and together with our local partners like Williams Career School of Excellence, we are tackling this challenge head-on.”
WCSE offers flexible training options, including both daytime and evening classes that last between four to five weeks. This structure allows students to balance their education with work and family commitments. After completing their CNA training and gaining six to nine months of experience, Dwyer Scholars can advance into other healthcare programs, such as medical assistant training or nursing school, with ongoing support from DWD.
Prospective students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to explore this opportunity. More information can be found by visiting the Williams Career School of Excellence website at mywcse.com.
Dwyer Workforce Development, established in 2021 by entrepreneur Jack Dwyer, aims to provide comprehensive support to individuals aspiring to careers in healthcare. The organization focuses on alleviating workforce shortages and enhancing the quality of care for seniors and the broader community. Under the leadership of CEO Barb Clapp, DWD has expanded its reach across several states, including Texas, Maryland, Florida, Kansas, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
The foundation of Williams Career School of Excellence was laid in 2011 by Cedric and Lora Williams. Their vision for workforce education has transformed the lives of many individuals. Lora’s journey began as a CNA at 16, a path that not only shaped her career but also highlighted the significant impact of healthcare training on families striving to overcome economic challenges. Today, WCSE continues to empower individuals with the skills needed to achieve lifelong success.
