Tools of Transformation

Genesee Co. – Mr. Valderas came to GST Michigan Works! to register for unemployment in January 2024. He needed clarification about the process and help navigating through MiWAM. His lack of computer skills made finding work on the internet difficult. However, his fears were relieved when he partnered with the GSTMW Employment Services team. He was able to apply for his benefits successfully. 

He was offered the assistance of a Career Coach to help him with his employment search. The assistance included preparing for interviews, resume writing, and application assistance. They discussed his goals, experience, and barriers. 

Mr. Valderas had been a Commercial Building Maintenance Supervisor for many years and wanted to stay in that field. However, he had difficulty properly explaining the reason for his termination from his previous employment. To his surprise, GST Michigan Works! had that covered, too. He attended our 3-day Reemployment Workshop and learned the best interviewing techniques, proper resume writing to showcase his expertise and qualifications, and video interviewing, which is becoming mainstream when applying for work. 

With assistance from his Career Coach, they created several accounts on the major job sites, updated his resume to showcase his talents and expertise, submitted his resume to GSTMW Business Service Professionals, and maintained a positive and confident attitude. Mr. Valderas worked diligently to find and apply for maintenance positions. He maintained confidence and didn’t settle for subpar employment. During this time, he didn’t wait around; he pursued his GED through GST’s Talent Development Center. He completed his practice GED test and is studying to sit for his official GED test one day soon. 

Mr. Valderas has repeatedly stated how happy he is with our excellent services, respect, and the attentiveness of every member of the GST Michigan Works! team.

In March, Mr. Valderas accepted employment with Independent Square Apartments. He is making more than his previous employment with health insurance and a more respectful atmosphere. However, he was required to have steel-toe work boots, various tools, and mileage support to help him get on his feet again. GST Michigan Works! was there again to support him in this transition. He was provided with work boots and various tools mandated by his new company. He was also eligible for help with mileage until he received his first paycheck. This success story shares how this client took advantage of the excellent services GSTMW offers to benefit him for the moment and a lifetime of success and self-confidence.