… Another Door Opens

Shiawassee County – Michelle first came to GST Michigan Works! in Owosso in April of 2021 after losing her employment. Michelle faced financial barriers due to the loss of income, and she desired to work full-time in an office environment but lacked the necessary experience and confidence to pursue that career. After connecting with staff about available services, she attended several workshops to learn how to obtain and maintain employment successfully, including interviewing skills and preparing a resume. 

As a result, she first obtained a job as a phone customer service representative, but it wasn’t the perfect fit. While still employed, she continued her search for an in-person office position, receiving career coaching and instruction, attending workshops and increasing her clerical skills. At last, Michelle obtained employment at SVRC, a GST Michigan Works! subcontractor, as a Clerical Assistant/Receptionist in the Owosso office. 

After obtaining employment, Michelle was assisted with services such as much-needed auto repair, mileage reimbursement, and help purchasing appropriate work attire. Unfortunately, after about a year and a half of employment, funds for her position had to be cut and Michelle found herself unemployed again.

Upon her lay off, instead of being satisfied with collecting unemployment for a while, she immediately returned to the drawing board with the assistance of GST Michigan Works! staff to begin applying for other positions. Building on what Michelle learned from previous experience through workshops and on the job, she was able to find new employment. 

She began working full-time, earning $2/hr. more than in her previous position. She is now an Independent Living and Employment Specialist for the Disability Network Capital Area at their GST Michigan Works! Owosso location. 

Michelle shared, “I worked with my job coach at GST Michigan Works! and she gave me the resources I needed to update my resume and job search. I had my interview and started employment with Disability Network, and I am so grateful for the guidance my coach offered me through this stressful time.”

When faced with the challenge of losing employment, Michelle learned how essential it is to keep pursuing her goals through continued improvement, belief in herself, and persistence!