Ramon came to Grundy Workforce Services the summer after he finished high school. Having been exposed to CADD during his time at Grundy Area Vocational Center, he began working on his A.A.S degree in Computer Aided Design and Drafting. Ramon carried a full-time credit load as a student at JJC while also working close to full-time hours. Ramon also began an internship at CADD Professionals in Morris. He excelled in his role there and was praised for his “mature demeanor and professional attitude” as well as his design talent and reliability. He so impressed the owner of the business that after successfully completing his six-month internship through GWS, he was hired by CADD Professionals. He worked there until he was offered a full-time salaried design position at another local company. Although he has only been out of high school for two years, Ramon is already earning a livable wage and contributing to the local workforce.
With a full-time job and an Associate’s degree, Ramon could take a few years off to rest and enjoy the fruits of his labor; his actual plan is much more ambitious. Ramon applied for and was awarded the Edward R. Valintis Scholarship. He is using the money to take some additional classes in preparation for his transfer to Governor’s State University where he will pursue a Bachelor’s degree in design. Ramon’s success story is a perfect example of what a WIOA training scholarship and internship can do for a student who otherwise wouldn’t have had the chance.