David came to Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! looking for assistance in obtaining his GED as he had not fulfilled the requirements to obtain a High School diploma. He also had a baby on the way, so he needed a job to support his family. Michigan Works! staff helped set him up with online GED courses through his local school district. We also helped him obtain a job as a Landfill Attendant making over minimum wage to help sustain his new child.
While working at the landfill, David was told that if he obtained his CDL A, he would get a full-time job as a Truck Driver making significantly more money. Prompted by that information, David came to the American Job Center and asked us if he would be able to get help paying for his CDL A at Midwest Truck Driving School. Knowing his situation and realizing the positive impact the certification would have on his growing family, we submitted a training contract and David was approved.
Michigan Works! helped pay for David to attend the 160 HR CVT CDL A training at the Midwest Truck Driving School. David passed the course with flying colors. However, he did not pass the driving test right away. At this time, he was unsure of himself and did not want to test again for fear of failure. Michigan Works! staff, seeing the potential in David, talked him into taking the driving test again. David drove 50 miles a day for a week practicing his truck driving skills so that he could pass his test.
When it came time for David to take the test again, he was ready, and he passed! David obtained a full-time job as a Truck Driver with the landfill and is now making a fair wage. David said that what Michigan Works! did for him was a life changer. He said he never would have been able to obtain his CDL A and a full-time job if it had not been for the help of Michigan Works! David is a grateful participant, happy that he can now help support his family.
—
Learn more about our Job Seeker services.