Making A Difference to Build A Brighter Future

 

Amber’s journey began in July 2024, when she walked into the office for her WIOA orientation. At the time, Amber was a single mother working as a housekeeper at McLaren Thumb Region. She worked hard to support her family but wanted to build a career that would provide more stability and opportunity for herself and her child.

Determined to move forward, Amber enrolled in the Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) program at Tuscola Technology Center. Her classes ran from August 2024 through January 2025. During this time, Amber balanced many responsibilities. She continued working part-time as a housekeeper while attending CMA classes two nights each week. As a single parent, her schedule was demanding, but she remained committed to completing the program. Support from the program helped cover tuition costs and mileage, easing some of the financial burden so she could stay focused on her education.

After months of dedication and hard work, Amber reached an important milestone. In January 2025, she took the NHA National Healthcareer Association state certification exam at Tuscola Technology Center—and she passed. Her accomplishment earned her a $100 Youth Incentive for the Recognition of Completion and Attainment of a Recognized Credential. She also received another $100 Youth Incentive for completion of her work experience, and an additional $100 Youth Incentive for placement in employment, recognizing the progress she had made toward her career goals.

Amber’s next step came in June 2025, when she began a paid work experience as a Medical Assistant at Harbor Beach Community Hospital. She worked 30 hours per week for a 12-week work experience placement. At her six-week midway review, Amber received an overall good rating, demonstrating her strong work ethic and growing skills in the medical field.

Her dedication paid off. In November 2025, Amber successfully transitioned into permanent employment as a Clinical Medical Assistant at Scheurer Primary Care – Caseville. In this new role, she worked 36 hours per week, marking a significant step forward in her career.

A follow-up text to Amber in February 2026 confirmed that she was still employed at Scheurer Primary Care in Caseville, continuing to work the same hours. Her hard work had not gone unnoticed; she had earned a raise.

Amber’s story is one of perseverance and determination. From balancing work, school, and single motherhood to achieving certification and securing a healthcare career, she demonstrated that with commitment and support, it is possible to turn goals into reality. Today, Amber continues to build a brighter future for herself and her daughter while making a meaningful difference in the lives of the patients she serves.