SKILLS, SUPPORT, SUCCESS!
When a person is laid off from their job, it can be a challenge to find a similar position that requires the same skills, particularly in smaller communities like Ephrata. In order to find a new job that pays a competitive wage, a dislocated worker might need to learn something new, and even pursue higher education or a certification. But then there’s the additional challenge: How does someone learn new skills to get a better job when the cost for training is an obstacle, and the regular expenses of life just keep coming?
Anthony Vela was a dislocated worker who had been laid off from his job as a Chip Spreader Operator. When he lost his job and the means to support his three children as a single parent, he was determined to find forward momentum with something new. He turned to SkillSource for guidance and support, and set out to become a CDL Class A truck driver.
Anthony enrolled in CDL Class A training at Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake. He worked with his SkillSource career trainer to confirm eligibility for Economic Security for All (EcSA), which helps with financial incentives for participants who are actively working toward a certification. Despite tough financial circumstances, the EcSA incentives helped Anthony pay for rent while he focused on completing his training. And when he successfully earned his CDL Class A license, he was awarded an additional $1,000 for his achievement.
The financial incentives provided through EcSA changes lives. Shortly after receiving his certification, Anthony was hired in a full-time position as a Route Truck Driver with Consolidated Disposal Services, Inc. (CDSI) in Ephrata, WA. The setback and the struggle were real, but thanks to Anthony’s perseverance and the support of SkillSource and EcSA, he regained his footing, and has now found forward momentum toward a brighter future for himself and his family.
Congratulations to Anthony and to CDSI!
