While Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) typically earn lower wages, sterile processing technicians tend to have higher earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2023, Medical Equipment Preparers, which include sterile processing technicians, generally earn higher average salaries compared to CNAs. This is especially true in states like California, Washington D.C., and Alaska, where demand for specialized medical equipment handling and sterilization services is higher. Sterile processing technicians require specific technical training and certification, which often leads to increased wages. In contrast, CNAs usually have less specialized training and therefore tend to earn lower salaries. Overall, sterile processing technicians tend to make more money than CNAs due to their specialized skills and the critical nature of their work in healthcare settings.