WEST WINDSOR, NJ (Sept 22, 2026) — Clipboard, an app-based, online marketplace helping healthcare professionals and local healthcare facilities connect with one another to fill open shifts, today announced a partnership with the New Jersey Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development (NJCCCWED). The collaboration will support students from Essex County College, Mercer County Community College, and Rowan College of South Jersey to complete their Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training and examinations at no cost.
“We know that the biggest hurdle for many aspiring healthcare professionals is simply getting a foot in the door. By removing the financial barriers to training, we’re proud to help these students launch their careers,” said Clipboard founder and Co-CEO Wei Deng. “A big part of our mission at Clipboard is to help lift people up the socioeconomic ladder. Through this program, we’re seeking to give participants an opportunity to pursue in-demand jobs while simultaneously helping New Jersey facilities fulfill their residents’ and patients’ need for care.”
New Jersey faces significant healthcare staffing challenges, with the state projected to experience one of the largest deficits of healthcare workers in the country by 2028, and is currently on track to have 4,000 fewer CNAs than required to meet patient needs.
Through the CNA Accelerator Program, participants can obtain their credentials within just two to three months of training. The initiative will support 24 students, providing them with a clear path toward a stable and meaningful career.
The CNA Accelerator Program removes the financial burden of education for participating students. Clipboard will cover all costs, including tuition, course materials, and examination fees. Upon passing their exams, graduates will be eligible to begin working as CNAs immediately. The Consortium will serve as the program administrator.
“NJCCC’s main objective is to empower and educate students to be impactful and valuable members of the workforce,” said Catherine Starghill, Esq., Vice President and Chief Workforce Innovation Officer at New Jersey Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development. “This initiative provides a meaningful entry point for students to become certified healthcare professionals and help shape a stronger, more resilient healthcare workforce in New Jersey. By removing barriers to education and connecting students with opportunities to build sustainable careers, we are helping create pathways to economic mobility while strengthening the communities we serve.”
Clipboard was founded to help individuals climb the socioeconomic ladder, both by raising awareness of nursing careers and through its core mission of connecting qualified professionals with vacancies that might otherwise go unfilled.
About Clipboard
Founded in 2016, Clipboard Health is an app-based, online marketplace helping healthcare professionals and local health care facilities connect with one another to fill open shifts. For more information, visit clipboard.com.
About NJCCC
The New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) represents the state’s 18 community colleges and leads statewide efforts to expand access to affordable, high-quality education and workforce training. Through its Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development, NJCCC partners with employers and public agencies to strengthen New Jersey’s talent pipeline and support economic growth. Visit their website for more information.