Roadmap to Profession

Javonte began working with GST Michigan Works!/Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates following the advice and recommendation of a close friend who shared his own experience of successfully obtaining his CDL-A and the assistance that he received. Javonte was very passionate about becoming a CDL-A driver. He knew that this was something he was going to achieve but lacked the resources necessary to do it on his own. He was excited to begin this new venture of obtaining his goal at 160 Driving Academy.

Javonte was a young professional who always found ways to improve and learn from his previous employment. He knew that he wanted to drive because he found peace on the open road, and he wanted to travel to see more of the country. Getting paid to do both was a bonus! Javonte kept a positive attitude and mindset. When his JMG Specialist mentioned how special it is to see that, he said, “Negative thoughts and behaviors lead to negative outcomes and if you want to be successful and have good things come to you, then you need to present that same energy.”

   Javonte was very eager to get started, but one main barrier stood in his way: his work schedule. Because of his work schedule, he was finding difficulty coming in to start the process. However, with our philosophy of meeting folks where they are, we were happy to offer him the flexibility he needed to be successful. 

With the help of WIOA Youth funding, Javonte received assistance with his CDL-A training and clothing. He successfully completed his CDL-A Training and was very thankful to have had consistent support and encouragement from his Specialist while working on accomplishing his goal. He is employed at Central Transport, with a starting pay of $23.50/hr. When asked what his thoughts were on the process, he said, “I feel lucky to have been a part of these programs, they are truly life-changing!”  

   Through Javonte’s dedication and hard work, he was able to accomplish his dream. He was motivated and never lost sight of his goal!  He is a very polite, respectful, and bright young man and will be an inspiration to those who come after him!