MARSHALLTOWN – When the Education & Training Center (ETC), 206 E. Church St., Marshalltown, opened in 2004, its mission was to be a central educational site that would meet the needs of community members. Most recently, there were six ETC graduates of the 75-hour Certified Nurse Aide program. Classes are offered at ETC and clinical experience is provided through a partnership with area nursing and rehabilitation centers.

One of the recent CNA graduates, Annie Johnson, now of Marshalltown, was a surgical nurse in her homeland of Togo, West Africa for 12 years. When she came to America she wanted to continue working in healthcare. There was one big barrier. She needed to master the English language. Annie went to the ETC and took English as a Second Language (ESL), following in her sister’s footsteps who also attended ETC. Annie quickly picked up the Basic English level and wanted to learn more. Annie was placed in the Adult Literacy in the Workforce in Iowa (ALWI) grant program where she blossomed through her completion of the Success Seminar, PreCNA coursework, and recently earned her CNA certification.

“Annie continues to improve her English language and has been successful in the ESL and CNA classroom, and has become a mentor to other students,” says her instructor, Kathy Siebring, Vocational Trainer and Education Success Coach. “Annie deeply cares for humanity and searches for more in her educational future–keep a watch out for her as she will continue to be successful in whatever she chooses to do!”

ETC offers several types of skilled training such as Certified Nurse Aide, language learning programs, and opportunities that would increase individuals’ self-esteem while embracing diversity and promoting cultural awareness. In six short years, ETC has outgrown its facilities. It has recently been awarded a $500,000 Small Business Administration award for acquisition, renovation and expansion. Several options are under consideration at the present time.

For more information on career and educational options available at the Education and Training Center call 641-754-1348.