Updated March 2023

Aiming to play a key role on a patient care team without going through years of university training? Then you may want to become a health care aide.

Health care aides deliver the kind of front-line, compassionate support that makes a real difference in patients’ lives. By providing practical assistance and companionship, they help their clients stay as safe and independent as possible.

And now is an excellent time to get into this career. There’s very strong demand for health care aides in Winnipeg and throughout Manitoba.

So what does it take to get started? How do you become a health care aide?

Read on to learn about five simple steps that can help you reach your goal.

 Nancy Scott RN (centre) wins the Herzing College Teacher of the Year award for her outstanding work with health care aide students

Health care aides (HCAs) are in high demand in Winnipeg and across most of Canada. Our rapidly aging population and dwindling health care budgets have long-term care facilities bursting at the seams.

Meanwhile, many seniors are opting to stay in their own homes for longer, creating a need for trained health care aides who can assist them to live safely on their own.

If you're looking for a career in healthcare that doesn't require years of training, but involves challenging, meaningful work—becoming a health care aide is an ideal option.