From the Court to the Road

After years of traveling the world as a professional basketball player and later serving his community as a substitute teacher, Dominez was ready to begin a new chapter that offered long-term stability, freedom, and a fresh sense of purpose.

In March 2025, he was referred to his Career Coach by a former client who had received WIOA funding for CDL-A training and had found success in the trucking industry. Inspired by his friend’s journey and ready for a change, Dominez decided to pursue a long-standing interest in becoming a professional truck driver.

With the help of WIOA and Michigan’s Electric Vehicle Jobs Academy funding, Dominez enrolled in the Public Works Academy training at Mott Workforce Development and partnered with 160 Driving Academy to earn his CDL-A license. He began training on April 7, 2025, approaching this new opportunity with the same discipline and focus that fueled his athletic career.

To help reduce the barriers that often come with career transitions, Dominez was provided with gas mileage assistance and auto repair funding, allowing him to stay focused and committed throughout his training.

Dominez completed the program on June 10, 2025, and just a few weeks later, on July 1, 2025, he began his new career as a Professional Driver with Granger.

Dominez stated, “Transitioning from basketball to truck driving wasn’t easy, but I knew I wanted a career with stability and freedom. With the support I received during training, I didn’t have to walk the road alone. Now I’m driving toward a better future. This is my second chapter, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. And a special shout-out to my Career Coach, Angel. I appreciate her for always believing in me, guiding me, and making sure I had the support I needed every step of the way.”

Dominez’s story is not just one of career change; it’s a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to start over. His journey from the basketball court to the open road proves that with the right support, determination, and vision, the next chapter can be just as fulfilling as the first.