Paving A New Public-Works Career Path

Jacob knew he wanted a career, not just another job, but didn’t know how to get there. After cycling through low wages, part-time work, and struggling to find stability, he was at a standstill. “I was doing what I could to get by,” Jacob said. “But I didn’t have a plan. I didn’t have direction.”

That started to change when he walked into the Flint GST Michigan Works! Service Center and connected with a career coach. “The services and coaching process were straightforward and well worth the investment of my time,” said Jacob. He was eligible for training!

However, getting into the Public Works Academy training was only part of the process. His career coach helped him sort out short and long-term goals, improve his resume, and prepare for interviews in the public sector.

Jacob focused, applied himself, and persevered over the few challenges he encountered while in the maneuver yard for the CDL-A portion of the training. He successfully completed that training, along with his OSHA 30 and CPR certifications.

Jacob entered employment with the Genesee County Road Commission, working forty hours a week and earning a good wage and benefits. He received additional funding for cold-weather outerwear and boots. Without that assistance, he said, the timely transition into employment might not have been possible. His first full-time job offers a clear pathway for advancement.

“It feels like everything I worked for finally came together,” Jacob said. “This isn’t just a job. It’s a future.”