Sean
Coming into the program, Sean was experiencing some challenges and needed assistance. He was on unemployment after being laid off, and was struggling financially. Sean wanted to obtain his CDL so he would be able to have full-time employment year-round. Career Coach Jenna Slaughter discussed the CDL program with Sean and made sure it was a right fit for him.
Sean did not have a high school diploma, so he was very nervous about his permit test as he had not been to school in a very long time. Jenna spoke with Sean over the weekend before his test and assured him that he would do well. Sean was very nervous, but the minute test day came around, he was prepared and passed! Sean was ecstatic—he accomplished what he did not know he could!
Throughout Sean’s training, he received assistance with mileage to help him financially. Sean drove back and forth to school daily, so the WIOA program offered him mileage reimbursement to help with gas while he attended school. He was very grateful for this as his unemployment had been terminated shortly after he began his training program. Sean never let his finances get in the way of his training, no matter how much he was struggling.
Sean completed his training and obtained his CDL license. Due to being unemployed and struggling financially, he took one of the first job offers he was given. The job offer was an over-the-road position with OTL, LLC. This job was very inconsistent with pay and loads. Sean would be offered to drive a load anywhere in the U.S., but there may only be 1-2 loads a week or none.
The goal for Sean was to work at ADM Trucking in Decatur as it was close to home. ADM wanted Sean to have a hazmat license to work for them, as they haul some chemicals that require a hazmat. Sean informed his Career Coach of needing a hazmat and the WIOA program assisted with sending him through hazmat training. Sean passed his hazmat training, got fingerprinted for his hazmat license, and is waiting for TSA approval so he can take the final test. Sean began working for ADM Trucking Monday, July 24, 2023, and is very excited that he obtained employment with ADM.
The path that led Sean to most of his success was his own desire to do what’s best for him and his family. ADM will provide Sean with enough financial stability to live comfortably and provide for his children. Sean is just another example of someone who has excelled through the WIOA program.