Lapeer - Alvis came to GST Michigan Works! in Lapeer during December 2021 due to a layoff. He was assisted in the Resource Room with completing his unemployment. While working with a Career Coach, Alvis mentioned that he was not certified and therefore ineligible for a raise. He was currently making $15/hr. as a welder at IDF in Lapeer. He learned about WIOA and training opportunities available to him through GST. With this knowledge, Alvis decided to start training with Lapeer ISD for their Welding course during his layoff. He participated in the training, never missing a class, even after returning to work!

GST Michigan Works! was able to provide financial support to Alvis through tuition payments and the purchase of a welding hood along with steel-toed boots!

During the course of this training, Lapeer ISD ran into some challenges, including: changing teachers, lack of supplies and low funding. Everyone was still able to complete the training and feel prepared to enter the workforce despite these hurdles! Alvis also completed all three parts of the training and finished the course on December 19th. He is now making $23/hr. with IDF.