Carson Achieves His Dream

Carson’s journey towards becoming a certified Heavy Equipment Operator was strongly shaped by his determination and the essential support he received from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program at GST Michigan Works!

His Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates Specialist (JMG), Dominque, recognized Carson’s potential, dreams, and played a crucial role in helping him acquire the specialized training needed for a promising career. To ensure that financial obstacles didn’t hinder Carson, the WIOA program provided him with the necessary funds for his training to help him attain success.

By May 2023, Carson was ready to commence his studies at the AIS Heavy Equipment Technical Institute, thanks to the support he received. This assistance granted him the ability to concentrate on his studies without the stress of financial concerns.

Carson’s success story demonstrates how programs like WIOA can help others pursue their career goals, especially in skilled trades and postsecondary training. With the help of his JMG Specialist and financial assistance from WIOA, Carson not only obtained his Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate but also gained more confidence in himself and his abilities.

Carson now works full-time at Rogers Excavating as an Operator, making well over the average wage for our region. When asked what advice he’d give to future program participants, Carson simply urged them to, “Go for it!” His success story speaks volumes about persistence and seizing opportunities, motivating others to chase their dreams with unyielding resolve and teaches us how support programs can assist people in reaching their goals and establishing successful careers.