From Packing Boxes to Caring Hearts: Kenyetta’s Journey to a Healthcare Career

Kenyetta Jones is an Out-of-School Youth participant from the Greater Flint Health Coalition’s Flint Healthcare Employment Opportunities (FHEO) program, a GST Michigan Works! service provider. Prior to joining the FHEO Program, Kenyetta was employed as a packer with a local manufacturing company. Kenyetta shared that she has always wanted to pursue a healthcare career because she enjoys helping those in need.

Before healthcare training, Kenyetta completed 120 hours of Life Skills and Healthcare Career Exploration training hosted by Flint Strive. Kenyetta shared that this training changed her life and gave her the opportunity to focus on her long-term career goals. Kenyetta said that Flint Strive taught her job-seeking skills like interview etiquette, punctuality, and resume writing. In January 2024, Kenyetta began certified nurse assistant training at Charter Healthcare Training Center. The FHEO Program provided financial support for Kenyetta’s tuition, textbooks, and required supplies. Kenyetta experienced a personal setback during the last week of training and had to postpone the completion of training. However, Kenyetta did not let this obstacle deter her from reaching her goals. While waiting to complete training, Kenyetta participated in a subsidized employment opportunity at McLaren Flint as a housekeeper This opportunity allowed Kenyetta to network and showcase her workplace skills while providing sanitation services.

In April 2024, Kenyetta completed her certified nurse assistant training and her subsidized employment opportunity. She transitioned from the housekeeper position to a nurse assistant with McLaren Flint and is enjoying her new career. Kenyetta states “Working at the hospital has been a wonderful experience and I love McLaren Flint.”