Eric came to GST Michigan Works! after leaving a local factory job where he was earning $16,80/hr. [He felt it was time to make a change. COVID-19 was making things challenging, but Eric thought this would be a great time to become a truck driver – out on his own in a pandemic.

Eric qualified for funding and got in touch with 160 Driving Academy in Flint. Eric was currently focused on the care of a family member who was suffering from medical issues and chose to put his career advancement on hold temporarily. GST Michigan Works! Career Coach reached out to him again when the funding was becoming scarce. He made the quick decision to get back on the training path. Thankfully, Eric’s parents lived in Flint, so he was able to stay with them and they could take over the care of his loved one while he attended training.

He took the time he needed to learn to drive a semi-truck and passed all classes and driving tests on his first try. Eric completed on 5/3 and found a job by 6/1/22. He will be driving over the road, earning $30/hr. and credits his new skills to 160 Driving Academy and GST Michigan Works!. “Very thankful to GST Michigan Works!” says Eric.