The Pine Ridge Job Corps Health Occupations Career Technical Trainees gain invaluable, on-the-job training at several of the medical facilities located in the area.  The students are in training to become CNA’s (Certified Nursing Assistants). They have to complete a classroom practicum and pass a state certified exam before entering the work base learning program. The students are usually in the classroom between 4-6 months while alternating weekly with high school educational classes.  After completion of the classroom training, the students are placed on work base learning assignments. On work base learning, the trainees work at a licensed care facility under the supervision of trained professionals.  The students are required to know the basic procedures of patient care, as well as have a fundamental understanding of medical terminology and treatments.  Some students have the opportunity to shadow specialty fields, like physical and occupation therapy and radiology.  The trainees will work full time for six weeks. Some of the Chadron, Nebraska,  care centers where they receive the training  include Chadron Community Hospital and Prairie Pines Care Center.  Students are also trained at the Ponderosa Villa in Crawford, Nebraska.  Some students  take a  med-aide test to be able to issue prescription medications.   Generally, it takes between 8 and 10 months to complete the Health Occupations Program.  Many of the students go on to further their education and become LPN’s and RN’s. (Licensed Practical and Registered Nurses.) One of the former students is presently working towards becoming a heart surgeon.