With the construction of the Carman Boyne Lodge trucking away, it won't be long before staff is needed to help run the 110-bed facility.

To be proactive and avoid a staffing shortage, Red River College (RRC) is offering a Health Care Aide program.

"It will be offered right in Carman. There will be both classroom and on-site experience for students and then they will have their exam," says Carman-Dufferin Director of Economic Development, Tyler King.

He adds that they hope to run it at least one more time before construction completes.

"It cost $2,760 to take and it will be located in Carman Collegiate for most of the classroom related stuff."

The personal care home is being modeled after a family home environment, offering a unique experience for those hoping to work there.

"It is going to be really neat when it's completed to have that home-style environment for residents . . . The look and feel of it is going to be so nice, and be able to provide some really excellent quality care for individuals."

King says it's also exciting that people can avoid travel costs and times while being able to stay in their home town after they complete their training.

This is the first time RRC is offering the course in the town and they're partnering with the Regional Health Authority to make it happen.

No previous experience or courses are required for the 20-week program which will run from February 3 to June 19. Visit the Red River College website for more information on registration.