The National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) PathStone Grant provides opportunities to individuals working in the agricultural sector who hope to gain access to services that provide them with further skills training and licensing, educational services, and any other career-development services, according to a news release from the nonprofit.

Funding also is available through the grant for dependents of individuals who qualify for this opportunity. The grant can provide dependents of eligible individuals with a similar variety of opportunities, ranging from career-development services to assistance with funding for educational opportunities.

Who is PathStone Corporation?

PathStone is a not-for-profit community development and human services organization dedicated to eliminating poverty and strengthening families and individuals in the communities we have been serving since 1969. Low-income families and economically distressed communities throughout New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, Indiana, Virginia, Vermont, and Puerto Rico are the primary beneficiaries of services and resources.

How has Â鶹AV partnered with the NFJP Pathstone Grant?

For those who qualify, and are approved by the PathStone team, this grant will provide free tuition for a number of students enrolling in Â鶹AV’s CDL-A program. Â鶹AV’s CDL programs start every 3 weeks at the Scarborough and Bangor campuses.

How do I know if I’m qualified?

To qualify for services under this grant, individuals must be considered low-income and at least 51% or more of their income must have come from agricultural work within the last 24 months.

If you believe you are qualified, and are interested in applying, please fill out the form HERE to indicate your interest, and have the following documents ready when our PathStone representative contacts you:

• ID (license, passport)
• Social Security Card
• Selective service registration
• Work history for the past 12 months:
  • Company name
  • Start and end dates
  • Last hourly wage
  • Proof of income (paystubs, W2, bank statements, etc)
• Proof of farm work:
  • Letter from the farm with start and end dates & if you volunteered and/or how much of a wage you received
• Copies of any public assistance being received (if applicable)

If you would like any additional information about our CDL-A program, or any of our additional programs, please reach out to our Admissions Team today!

For more information on PathStone, please visit their . 

In the world we live in today, advancements in AI and robotics have transformed the way we work. Automation impacts many industries, which results in severe job loss. However, there are trades that continue to thrive, secure from the rise of AI. Among these trades is the HVAC/R industry.

HVAC/R technicians are highly skilled professionals responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Despite the advancements in AI, the HVAC industry has continued to grow and the demand for these skilled technicians has increased.

One of the key reasons why the HVAC industry remains safe from automation is the complexity of the work. HVAC technicians must have a deep understanding of various systems, such as electrical, plumbing, and refrigeration, which AI cannot yet replicate. While HVAC systems are a crucial part of achieving energy efficiency in buildings, AI can only control certain aspects of them. Human intervention is still imperative and essential to the proper functioning of these systems.

The demand for skilled HVAC/R technicians is projected to grow in the coming years. As buildings become more complex, HVAC/R systems will become even more critical in achieving energy efficiency. Additionally, HVAC/R technicians are responsible for maintaining the comfort and safety of those inside the buildings they’re servicing by providing preventative equipment care and repair to the systems in place.

A career in the trades, such as an HVAC technician, is an excellent choice for those who want a secure and rewarding career. It is also perfect for people who enjoy working in a hands-on, problem-solving environment. As our HVAC/R Program Manager, Bob Horr, says: with the right training, like the program offered here at Â鶹AV, “wherever you land, you’re immediately employable.â€�

For more information on our HVAC/R program, give us a call today or fill out this form to schedule an appointment with one of our Admissions Advisors!

Keep Your HVAC System Clean and Change Your Filters.

Cleaning your system includes the vents, filters, and registers. Pet hair, leaves, dust, debris – all of these can impact the flow and efficiency of your HVAC/R system.

Consider Investing in a Programmable Thermostat.

With control of your heating and air conditioning at your fingertips, even when you’re away from home, can keep your heating and air conditioning costs in line.

Be Sure to Check for Leaks and Insulate.

When air leaks are present, your HVAC/R system works less efficiently and twice as hard. This can increase your energy cost exponentially.

Check All Pipe Insulation and Condensate Lines.

Always replace damaged insulation or condensate lines as quickly as possible to prevent higher energy bills or damage to your home or workspace.

Last, but not least, Schedule Maintenance for your HVAC/R System.

Having an expert come take a look at your system, and taking preventative action, can catch problems early on and ensure smoother performance.

Considering a career in HVAC/R? Â鶹AV offers short-term, hands-on training and certification prep, starting every 10 weeks. For more information on our HVAC/R program, fill out this Form and one of our Admissions Advisors will be in touch.

HVAC/R stands for Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigerants/Refrigeration. These technicians service and maintain the systems and equipment for these fields on both a commercial and residential level. While many technicians work for larger maintenance and general construction companies, a number of technicians run their own businesses and are self-employed.

A day in the life of an HVAC/R technician may include tasks such as: installing, repairing, cleaning, and maintaining HVAC/R systems, as well as keeping track of the maintenance provided.

What does the future hold for the HVAC/R industry?

As everyone uses these kinds of systems, HVAC/R technicians are in high demand in the United States. The job market for this industry is even expected to grow by 5% between now and 2030. With new technology coming out at a rapid pace, there is a need for experts to help assist homes and businesses in keeping up-to-date with preventative care and maintenance. Additionally, as older equipment becomes less efficient, the demand for replacement will continue to increase, resulting in a steady need for work in this industry.

What does the salary for a career in HVAC/R look like?

The median annual wage for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers is $48,630 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How can Â鶹AV help you?

Â鶹AV’s HVAC/R program is a combination of classroom and lab instruction. Throughout this program, you will learn how to install, maintain, and service the different HVAC/R systems. You will also be trained in safety standards, home and business systems, installation, maintenance, repair, and electrical wiring. This program prepares our students to be certified in NORA (National Oil-Heat Research Alliance), EPA 608 Certification, and CETP (Certified Employee Training Program).

For more information on our HVAC/R program, fill out the Request Information Form here, or contact our Admissions Team today to set up an appointment! 

If this sounds like you, then a career in Healthcare might be right up your alley. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for healthcare workers has greatly increased. If you’re considering a change in your career, and are interested in a job where you can help others, especially at a time where it’s needed the most, Â鶹AV would love to help you get on the right path. With courses starting frequently, Â鶹AV can get you enrolled, trained, and pointed in the right direction to your new career in less than a year.

If Healthcare is where you see your future, Â鶹AV offers three different paths:

Phlebotomy Technician:

The role of a Phlebotomy Technician is essentially to draw blood samples from patients and donors. They are also responsible for labelling the samples, and updating records as needed, logging all the essential patient/donor information.

Â鶹AV’s Phlebotomy program starts every 5 weeks and lasts for approximately 6 weeks. This program provides hands-on training with our team of instructors who are all professionals in the Healthcare field. It also provides our students with the essential training needed to pass the American Medical Technologist (AMT) exam.

Medical Billing & Coding

If being in front of patients isn’t quite your thing, Medical Billing and Coding (MBC) professionals are the people hard at work behind-the-scenes of the Healthcare field. These individuals create and asses patient records, determine the different kinds of services used, and then translate this information into the proper coding for insurance reimbursement. This, in turn, ensures that patients are receiving the right care and the right insurance coverage.

The MBC program at Â鶹AV starts every 3 weeks and lasts for approximately 33 weeks total. This program trains students on how to process treatment records and insurance information, while also processing insurance claims and codes, as well as the ins and outs of the appeals process.

Clinical Medical Assistant

The Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) route is the best option for those who are interested in working face-to-face with patients. CMAs are responsible for taking vital signs, drawing blood samples, handing out prescriptions, scheduling patients and filing records, as well as billing. This program also includes training in the legal aspects of healthcare, a rundown of medical terminology, the medical billing process, as well as anatomy and physiology.

Â鶹AV’s MBC program is a combination of classroom and lab instruction, and starts every 3 weeks, spanning over approximately 27 weeks total. As this job is incredibly hands-on, you’ll be trained by our team of professional instructors in fully-equipped labs at any of our three campus locations.

All of the above positions are in high demand as is, and this field is expected to grow even more in the upcoming years, so now is the time to get yourself trained! For more information, fill out our Request Information form or call us directly to set up an appointment with our Admissions Team today!

What does a CRMA do?

A CRMA, or a Certified Residential Medication Aid, is responsible for administering medications, recording and documenting the administration of medications, being aware of Resident Rights and keeping patient confidentiality, as well as reporting incidents.

What does a CMA do?

CMAs are responsible for documenting patient medical history, explaining treatment procedures to patients, preparing patients for examination, taking vital signs, collecting and preparing laboratory specimens, performing basic laboratory tests, phlebotomy, electrocardiograms, wound care, and preparing and administering medication. CMAs may also perform administrative tasks such as welcoming patients, coding, filling out insurance forms, scheduling appointments, coordinating hospital admissions and laboratory services, and updating patient medical records.

Moving from CRMA to CMA

Â鶹AV offers training as a Clinical Medical Assistant at all of our campuses in Maine (Bangor, Auburn, and Scarborough) and classes start every 3 weeks and run for approximately 27 weeks. During this training, students are prepared to pass the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) exam.

As is the case in any industry, employers like to hire certified workers, and pay scales are often based on experience, therefore with previous experience as a CRMA paired with the CMA training received at Â鶹AV, one can expect to see an additional financial boost in their career, while expanding their knowledge and expertise in their chosen field.

For more information on our Clinical Medical Assistant training program here at Â鶹AV, be sure to call our Admissions team today, or fill out our online form.

What does a CNA do?

CNAs are responsible for direct patient care, which includes tasks such as: turning or moving patients, gathering medical supplies, bathing patients, assisting with daily patient needs (brushing teeth, getting dressed, etc.), feeding patients and documenting food and liquid intake, checking vitals, and tending to patient calls and emergencies.

What does a CMA do?

CMAs are responsible for documenting patient medical history, explaining treatment procedures to patients, preparing patients for examination, taking vital signs, collecting and preparing laboratory specimens, performing basic laboratory tests, phlebotomy, electrocardiograms, wound care, and preparing and administering medication. CMAs may also perform administrative tasks such as welcoming patients, coding, filling out insurance forms, scheduling appointments, coordinating hospital admissions and laboratory services, and updating patient medical records.

Where do CNAs and CMAs work?

Both CNAs and CMAs work in a wide variety of healthcare facilities, including but not limited to: hospitals, private practices, doctor’s offices, etc. CNAs focus primarily on facilities that provide direct patient care, such as hospices, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. However, CMAs have a little more freedom and more options as they are also able to work in facilities that don’t focus on or provide long-term patient care.

What is the job demand for CNAs vs. CMAs?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the CMA job outlook expects to increase by 29% over the next decade, which is at a much higher rate than the CNA job outlook at a 14% increase over the same time frame.

The increase of demand in both lines of work directly correlates to the increase in medical facilities across the nation, as well as advancements in medical technology, and a growing elderly population.

What does the pay look like for CNAs vs. CMAs?

While salaries are dependent on skill set and level of experience, CNAs have an average salary of $30,885 per year (approx. $13.95/hr). CMAs, on average, make about $35,878 per year (approx.. 16.52/hr).

For more information on our Clinical Medical Assistant training program here at Â鶹AV, be sure to call our Admissions team today, or fill out our online form.

Whenever the weather dips below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, there is the possibility that your tires can freeze to the ground below them. Extreme temperatures can also cause extensive damage to your tires, so it’s imperative to keep an eye on your vehicle – be it a car or a tractor trailer truck – throughout the colder months.

What causes tires to freeze?

When temperatures drop, the moisture in the ground can freeze, fusing with the rubber of the tires. Additionally, older tires are likely to expand and crack, which allows moisture to get into the tire itself, and makes it more susceptible to freezing.

Colder temperatures also cause a drop in tire air pressure, which in turn causes the flattening of the tire. This makes it easier and more likely for a tire to freeze to another flat surface.

How can you prevent tires from freezing?

During more inclement weather, take the time to move your car, even the littlest bit. Cars that have been moved recently are less likely to freeze to the ground. If you’ve been traveling in the rain or through wet terrain, and know colder weather is on the way, it is sometimes beneficial to dry off your tires once parked, preventing the water that may have accumulated on your tires from freezing overnight.

Additional measures you can take include watching your tire pressure, parking indoors whenever possible, keeping an eye on your treads, or switching out for winter tires during the colder months.

How do you thaw your frozen tires?

The good news is that in most situations, the tires will become unstuck when you attempt to move the vehicle. In the instances, however, when this is not the case or when older tires are involved that may sustain damage from being frozen, the first thing to try is pouring warm (not hot) water over the tire.

This winter, be sure to be attentive to the treads and state of your tires to prevent any additional damage, and be mindful of when the temperatures are set to drop. Stay warm and drive safe!