Mid-Life Career Transition

Lapeer – Michelle came into the Lapeer Service Center based on nothing but word of mouth from her community, and a hope that she can get assistance in returning to work. Michelle, like so many other Americans, was laid off from employment due to the COVID -19 pandemic. Hoping the lay-off she received from Toyo Seat in June 2019 was temporary, as months went by, she found herself permanently laid off in March 2020.

At 47 years old, where could she begin? She knew she had to return to work at some time, but where? While there were some viable options, Michelle knew she had to find an occupation that could offer her stability and a career. She was in search of a new opportunity that could bring her happiness and fulfillment while providing for her family. That’s when she turned to GST Michigan Works!

Michelle enrolled in a CNA training program in February 2021, with a program start date of March 2021. Still, as the COVID-19 virus spread, we all noticed how it affected so much more than we initially thought. Her course was cancelled. She now had a projected start date of June 2021. At a time where she could have quit, where she could have stopped her dream right then and there and returned to production or another “easier” service occupation, she stayed persistent as she had before. She kept her goal in mind and patiently waited for her course start date, with the notion that “This too soon shall pass…” Whether it pertained to the pandemic or her current employment status, she never gave up hope that she wouldn’t have the opportunity to succeed. And it is to our great pleasure to say that she did!

Michelle passed her CNA training course with flying colors, and the ride didn’t stop there! She went on to pass her State Certification exam with Prometric and is now a State Certified Nurse’s Aide. Michelle had the tenacity and drive to succeed and we’re happy to provide the support she needed to get there! GST MI Works! was able to sponsor her tuition payment in full, gas mileage reimbursement, and uniform purchases to perform clinical duties while still in training. It was no surprise to hear that Michelle was able to gain stable employment shortly after her course was completed and State Certification issued in her name. GST MI Works! was still able to provide her with mileage to report to work until she received her first paychecks and purchase additional scrub uniforms to support her now very busy work life!

Michelle has said time and time again how thankful
she is for GST Michigan Works! and the support that was provided.