The challenges of workforce development on the Chicago South Side and in the southern suburbs are well-documented. Employers face shortages of skilled labor while individuals in the region, often from disadvantaged backgrounds, struggle to access career pathways into manufacturing. Bridging that gap is the mission of the Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC), which has administered programs such as the Job Training & Economic Development (JTED) and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Career Pathways initiative to prepare job seekers for in-demand roles while supporting the needs of local manufacturers.
The JTED program, administered with support from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), was designed to foster local economic development by linking the needs of disadvantaged or low-wage workers with workforce demands in industry. Participants receive hands-on training, job readiness preparation, and career exposure in fields such as machining and welding, which are sectors that continue to face critical skills shortages. CAIC partnered with Prairie State College and Governors State University (GSU) to provide the customized bridge program and occupational skills training for this program. CAIC also leverages federal programs under WIOA Career Pathways, with funding from the U.S. Department of Labor. These resources help support career pathways for vulnerable populations while strengthening the local industry.
One of those success stories is Apollo Jones, Jr., a Chicago native who, through CAIC’s training programs, transitioned from a recent college graduate seeking opportunity to become a Manufacturing Engineering Technician at IMI Bimba Manufacturing in University Park, Illinois. Apollo grew up on Chicago’s South Side and studied mechanical engineering with a concentration in manufacturing at Alabama A&M University. Returning home after graduation, he was having difficulties obtaining employment when he discovered CAIC’s program through his grandmother, who had read about it in the newspaper. “I was looking for jobs in manufacturing, and this program gave me both career readiness and exposure to areas like machining that built on what I learned at the university,” said Jones. Apollo refreshed his skills in blueprint reading, trades math fundamentals, and chose the machining track to gain practical experience.
Beyond technical training, CAIC removed barriers that often derail participants’ progress. They provided weekly transportation assistance, work boots, uniforms, and even a laptop upon graduation, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce. 
Apollo’s dedication quickly paid off. Shortly after completing the program, he was hired by IMI Bimba Manufacturing, a leader in pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric motion solutions, as an assembler. Within his first month, he advanced to a new position after demonstrating initiative and sharing his background in manufacturing engineering. 
At Bimba, Apollo helped boost departmental efficiency by resolving a machine backlog that had stretched for more than eight months. The turnaround was completed in just 60 days, earning him recognition and opening new career doors. Today, he serves as a Manufacturing Engineering Technician, working in quality to analyze failed products, identify root causes, and implement solutions. “Being an engineer is very hands-on,” Apollo said. “You need to know the ins and outs of different disciplines. My focus now is to be well-rounded.” His current projects involve working with pneumatic actuators used in applications ranging from coin machines to car washes, underscoring how manufacturing innovation is embedded in everyday life.
For CAIC, Apollo’s story exemplifies the impact of targeted workforce programs in building careers, supporting employers, and enhancing communities. By addressing both technical training and personal support, the JTED program and related WIOA initiatives provide a model for how workforce development can meet the dual needs of workers and manufacturers in the Southland. Reflecting on his experience, Apollo credits CAIC with helping him refocus and move forward. “I just want to thank the people at CAIC for being there for people like me, who may not have completely figured out life or who need a second chance. This program helped me get back on track. Now I have a full-time job and a future in manufacturing.”

Meet Amarion Bond, an inspiring young participant from the Angel of God Resource Center’s IYIP program! Amarion recently took a big step toward his future by enrolling in the NSC Lift Truck Operator Training at Wilbur Wright College.
With hard work and determination, Amarion completed the training and earned his Forklift Certificate of Completion on October 26, 2024! 🎉This achievement is not just a piece of paper; it’s a ticket to new job opportunities in the fast-growing logistics and warehousing industry!
Amarion’s success shows that with support and commitment, dreams can come true. His journey will inspire other young people in the program, proving that anything is possible when you believe in yourself!
We couldn’t be prouder of Amarion and can’t wait to see where this new chapter takes him. The sky’s the limit.

Building Skills for the Future: Giesecke & Devrient Launched Industrial Maintenance Apprenticeship Program 

Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) is taking a proactive step toward workforce sustainability with the launch of its Industrial Maintenance Apprenticeship Program at the company’s Chicago facility. The initiative, developed in partnership with the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), aims to enhance technical expertise, improve operational efficiency, and establish structured career pathways for employees. By investing in on-the-job learning and mentorship, G&D is ensuring that its workforce is equipped to meet the challenges of increasingly advanced manufacturing technology. 

For apprentice Simon Wu, the program has been transformative. Recently awarded his U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) credential, Wu shared how the apprenticeship has enhanced both individual development and team collaboration: “This apprenticeship program creates opportunities to highlight the skill sets of individuals and the areas in which they need improvement. Offering in-house training with people who are familiar with solving those issues daily will create a better learning environment for our future technicians.” His success is a testament to how hands-on learning, supported by experienced mentors, can enhance skill levels and confidence among employees. 

According to Luis Lara, Sr. Manager at Giesecke & Devrient, the program represents a vital investment in both safety and operational excellence: “An Apprenticeship program for our maintenance technicians here in G&D Chicago is essential to ensure the safety, efficiency, and reliability of equipment. It equips technicians with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform preventive and corrective maintenance, effectively troubleshoot issues, and adapt to evolving technologies. Investing in training programs like the one implemented not only reduces downtime and costly repairs but also promotes a culture of continuous improvement, compliance with safety standards, and overall operational excellence.” 

IMEC Regional Manager, Dave Musgrave, praised G&D’s commitment to workforce development and the company’s vision for long-term talent growth: “Supporting Giesecke & Devrient in establishing their Industrial Maintenance Apprenticeship program has been a rewarding experience. Our role at IMEC has been to help set the project in motion and continue guiding as they implement and grow the program. This initiative is a clear example of how manufacturers can invest in their people while addressing critical workforce needs. We’re proud to partner with Giesecke & Devrient as they strengthen their team and build a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.” 

Apprenticeship programs like G&D’s are proving to be powerful tools in addressing the manufacturing skills gap. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 93% of apprentices remain employed after completing their program, with an average annual salary exceeding $77,000. In Illinois, IMEC and its partners are helping manufacturers implement programs that not only close critical skills gaps but also foster loyalty, engagement, and innovation among employees. By combining technical training with mentorship and career advancement opportunities, Giesecke & Devrient is creating a model for how manufacturers can invest in their people and secure the future of industrial excellence. 

Photo: Left to right: Stacey B. Walker, MBA, Senior Human Resources Business Partner; Industrial Maintenance Apprentice Simon Wu; and Luis Lara, Senior Maintenance Manager, Giesecke & Devrient 

Dabian received delivery work experience and Employability Training. During the hiring process, Dabian expressed interest in becoming a Class A CDL Driver. Dabian was introduced to different aspects of the package delivery industry, including:

• On Road Safety (Defensive Driving, Distracted Driving Avoidance)
• Proper Loading/Unloading Technique
• Behind-the-Wheel Training on public roads
• Package Delivery
• Vehicle Pre-Trip and Post-Trip
• Customer Service Skills
• Time Management and Route Optimization
• Technology (GPS, Handheld Devices, In-Cab Cameras)

Dabian went above and beyond by asking questions, shadowing delivery drivers, and even staying later to understand logistics challenges. At the end of the training program, Dabian was awarded full-time employment as a Delivery Driver. Dabian was offered a salary of $24 per hour, with benefits including retirement savings, performance bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement. Dabian will be attending Trucking School to attain his Class A CDL.

Zakiya Mensah is a 24-year-old aspiring pharmacist from Chicago's south side, driven by a passionate commitment to serve her community.

After earning her bachelor's degree from Vanderbilt University in 2023, where she pursued a challenging double major in Neuroscience and Medicine, Health, and Society, Zakiya returned to Chicago to work as a research technician at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. Her dedication to her dreams led her to enroll at Malcolm X College this year to complete the prerequisite courses needed for pharmacy school. She also completed a pharmacy technician training program, successfully obtaining her pharmacy technician license in Illinois.

Through a meaningful connection facilitated by the Boys and Girls Club, Zakiya found an opportunity at La Rabida Children's Hospital to complete her pharmacy technician internship training. This experience at La Rabida Pharmacy has provided her with invaluable early exposure to her future career.

Throughout her journey, Zakiya has been fortunate to have unwavering support from Coach Shawn and Coach TJ from IYIP, who are always there for her whenever she needs guidance or encouragement. Their consistent presence and motivation have been instrumental in keeping her focused and inspired as she navigates the challenging path toward her career goals.

What drives Zakiya most is the opportunity to share the profound healing power of safe medication practices with children from the very community where she was raised. In each parent she encounters—those caring for their children and seeking the best possible care—she sees a reflection of her own role model: her mother. For Zakiya, being a contributor on the healthcare team supporting young patients on their journeys toward healing represents not just a career, but a calling that connects her past, present, and future.

If you're looking to find a new job or seek job training to take your career to the next level, make sure to check out the new McHenry County Workforce Network kiosks at the McHenry and Harvard libraries!
The kiosks, placed earlier this month, provide one-stop access to everything you need, including workforce development programming, unemployment resources, housing resources, and more. Patrons can explore the kiosk’s simple interface that can direct individuals to the resources that best match their needs.
The Workforce Network exists to offer free help for people seeking employment, from resume help to finding skills training and much more - be sure to visit their website to learn about all the programs they offer.
 

Danette joined McHenry County Workforce Network’s WIOA (Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act) Program in April 2024, seeking assistance in finding a job. She was placed as an intern in an administrative role at the Workforce Network, where she made valuable contributions. During her internship, she supported the Workforce's Step Forward program, entered time sheets and case notes, and created an Excel sheet to track interns' hours—an essential tool still in use today.
After her internship at the Workforce, Danette began a new internship with McHenry County’s Emergency Management department, where she helped organize files and assisted with data entry. Her supervisor praised her for doing a great job and being very helpful.
In December 2024, Danette started her final internship in a Customer Service role at a local paper distribution company. She excelled in the position, impressing her supervisors. At the end of her internship, she was offered a permanent position, where she continues to thrive and enjoy her work.
Dannette said, “The McHenry County Workforce helped me find the courage to face the future. Their STEP Forward program helped me work on my people and interviewing skills. The internships allowed me to refresh and build on my office skills. With these new abilities, I found the drive to improve myself and my circumstances. They not only opened doors for me, but they also helped me walk through. I am grateful to MCWF and the WIOA program for the opportunities and abilities they have given me.”

Payton, an Elk Grove High School senior, is gaining hands-on experience through the apprenticeship of the Prospect Heights Park District. From maintaining equipment to problem-solving alongside full-time staff, he’s learning valuable trade skills, teamwork, and responsibility that go far beyond the classroom. Every day on the job helps him discover new strengths and see what a future career in the trades could look like. This apprenticeship is more than work: guidance, mentorship, and preparation for life after high school. Learn more here: https://www.d214.org/Page/2107

Miguel worked as a Delivery Driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver, Miguel was responsible for making small package deliveries to homes, apartments, and businesses. During his paid experience, Miguel focused on Critical Thinking and Planning, and Organizing. Miguel made great improvements by interacting with customers and delivering packages to the correct address. Miguel was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver. Miguel has begun the process to upgrade his Driver’s License to a Class C to begin operating 26 Foot Box Trucks.

James worked as a Delivery Driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver, James was responsible for making small package deliveries to homes, apartments, and businesses. During his paid experience James focused on Professionalism and Respect. James was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver. James has begun the process to upgrade his Driver’s License to a Class C to begin operating 26 Foot Box Trucks.

Jalen worked as a Delivery Driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver, Jalen was responsible for making small package deliveries to homes, apartments, and businesses. During his paid experience, Jalen focused on Active Listening and Clear Communication. Jalen was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver. Jalen is currently enrolled in college to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Music Business.

Abdul worked as a Delivery Driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver, Abdul was responsible for making small package deliveries to homes, apartments, and businesses. During his paid experience, Abdul focused on Integrity and Respect. Abdul was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver. Abdul has begun the process to upgrade his Driver’s License to a Class C to begin operating 26 Foot Box Trucks.

Evelyn worked as a Delivery Driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver, Evelyn was responsible for making small package deliveries to homes, apartments, and businesses. She took pride in being dependable, efficient, and providing excellent service to customers. She made it a priority to learn not just how to deliver packages quickly and safely, but also how the entire logistics operation worked. She treated every shift as a learning opportunity, asking questions about route planning, customer service policies, and leadership practices. Evelyn was offered a full-time position as a manager. In this new position, she leads a team of drivers, coordinates daily operations, and ensures that service standards are met across the board. With a foundation built on real-world experience and a growing understanding of leadership and operations, Evelyn has registered for Business courses to further develop her skills to grow within the logistics industry—or even launch a delivery business of her own one day.

Kegan worked as a Delivery Driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver, Kegan was responsible for making small package deliveries to homes, apartments, and businesses. During his paid experience Kegan focused on Professionalism and Dependability. Kegan was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver. Kegan has begin the process to upgrade his Driver’s License to a Class C to begin operating 26 Foot Box Trucks.

Evian worked as a Delivery Driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver, Evian was responsible for making small package deliveries to homes, apartments, and businesses. During his paid work experience he focused on perseverance and conflict resolution. Evian was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver. Evian will be enrolling in Trucking School for the Fall Semester.

Destiny worked as a Delivery Driver Helper to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. As a Delivery Driver Helper, Destiny assisted in delivering and assembling oversized packages up to 300 lbs in addition to loading/unloading cargo vans safely. During her paid work experience, she learned how to work and effectively communicate with others. Destiny did a great job asking her supervisors for feedback on how she can improve. Destiny was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver Helper.

Carlos worked as a Delivery Driver Helper to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. He learned to deliver packages using the mobile device and complete the daily vehicle inspection checklist. During his paid work experience, he focused on critical thinking and cooperative work. Carlos was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver Helper. Carlos is currently attending Trucking School to receive classroom and on-the-road training to obtain his Class A Commercial Driver’s License.

Edgard worked as a Delivery Driver Helper to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. During his paid work experience, he focused on being professional and maintaining a positive attitude. Edgard was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver Helper. Edgard will be training to become a Class C Driver and Instructor.

After completing two months of paid work experience, Evan quickly developed a strong understanding of logistics, route management, and customer service. He treated every shift as an opportunity to prove he was reliable and could handle responsibility under pressure.

As a result of his dedication and consistent performance, he was offered a full-time delivery driver position. Now, with real-world experience under my belt, he will be taking the next step by enrolling in a CDL school. He plans to earn his commercial driver’s license and advance into larger-scale freight and transport operations.

Jose worked as a Delivery Driver Helper to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. During his paid work experience, he focused on time management and communicating with customers. Jose delivered 1000 packages and received a 100% customer satisfaction rating. Jose was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver Helper and tuition reimbursement to attend CDL School.

“My name is Dominic, and I moved here to Centralia, IL, in December 2024. I work for F.C.L.E.- Freight Car Locomotive Experts, specializing in locomotive part fabrication in Centralia. I also install positive train control systems for Metro East Industries in East St. Louis.
In the spring of 2025, I started Kaskaskia College’s Industrial Electrical Program with Professor Lyle Gross. Because of this program, I have been able to gain a great grasp on my work and refine my skills in the school lab.
Kaskaskia has given me the hands-on training and technical knowledge I needed. The skills and experience I gained there have prepared me to handle my work confidently and accurately.”
-Dominic C.

Alexander worked as a Delivery Driver Helper to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. During his paid work experience, he learned how to work and effectively communicate with others. Alexander did a great job asking his supervisors for feedback on how he can improve. Alexander was offered a full-time position as a Delivery Driver Helper.

Luis worked as a delivery driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. During his paid work experience, he learned how to safely operate a DOT Vehicle and deliver packages to customers’ homes. Luis successfully delivered over 2000 packages and received great customer feedback on his performance. Luis was offered a full-time position driver and will be begin training on operating a 26-foot Box Truck with Air Brakes.

Anthony worked as a delivery driver to gain hands-on experience in the logistics industry. During his paid work experience, he learned about route planning, time management, customer service, and how to handle high-pressure situations — all essential for any career in transportation and logistics.

Anthony was offered a full-time position as a dispatcher. This new role allows him to oversee routes, support drivers, and contribute to more strategic operations within the company.

Inspired by his growth and the possibilities in the logistics field, he will be enrolling in community college to study Business Administration. He is excited to build on real-world experience with formal education and to advance his career.

When I started this program, I was completely new to everything. At CanTV, I've had the chance to make short films, write scripts, give tours, and assist with live performances. The program has been especially helpful in teaching me about key lighting and editing.

CanTV has been operating for 40 years, offering free classes on content creation. When I learned about the opportunity to join, I signed up immediately. The program has motivated me to finally pursue my photography hobby and potential business, and I'm really enjoying it. I've already applied the concepts of key lighting to my photography and plan to do the same with editing.

Initially, it was challenging, but with practice, I started to feel confident in my skills. I've been at CanTV for about a month and a half. Now, as I head back to school, I plan to apply what I've learned to my hobbies and future projects. While I'm not sure if this will become a career, I know I have a long journey ahead of me, and I'm excited to see where it leads.

At 16, I transitioned from being a full-time student-athlete to stepping into the professional world with the help of the program. They guided me in building a strong resume, updating my LinkedIn profile, and connecting me with amazing opportunities — including being placed on the DO! Media Team for Destiny Outreach. In that role, I worked directly alongside leadership to create and edit digital content for events and special projects, while also gaining experiences that took me to places I had always wanted to visit. These opportunities strengthened my creativity, communication, and technical skills, and now I’m pursuing my next big goal of becoming a content creator and influencer, fully equipped with the skills and confidence to make it happen

One of the most memorable and impactful experiences for me was participating in the creation of a short film. Just being on set, even helping out in the background, gave me valuable insight into how a real-life film production operates. This hands-on involvement made the entire process feel new and interesting.

Another highlight came when we were split into two groups to develop our own story ideas to pitch. My group's idea was not only chosen but also used for the short film. This was incredibly rewarding and taught me the importance of collaboration and creativity in filmmaking.

Overall, the program opened my eyes to various career paths within the film and acting industry. The practical training and useful information I received helped me understand how to get started in this field. Whether I pursue film as a main career or a side job, I now feel much more prepared and inspired thanks to this experience.

Being a part of Destiny Outreach's apprenticeship program and being placed at Central City
Productions (CCP) was a truly enriching experience. During my 8 weeks at CCP, I had the
incredible opportunity to work on the pre-production of the Stellar Awards. As a student majoring
in Computer Information Systems, I initially wondered how I would fit into the film and
entertainment world. But thanks to the program’s many professional and personal development
training sessions, I felt well-prepared going into my worksite placement.

I have gained hands-on experience and learned that there’s a place for me in the film and
entertainment industry, especially with my interest in data and technology. This program has
instilled in me the power of finding my dream, fighting for it, and fulfilling it. I also gained industry
insights from established professionals such as Danita Patterson, Don Jackson, and many
others in the entertainment industry. Thanks to this experience, I am more confident in
combining my technical background with creative industries, and I have a clearer vision for my
future career.

Since starting with the DO! Program, I’ve been able to not only evaluate myself
but grow as well. I’ve been able to learn things about the specific career path I would
like to take and learn more about the entertainment/film side of things. The program not
only prepared me for what’s to come but introduced me to different avenues that I didn’t
even know existed in the entertainment world. Being able to go through self-reflection
and take in everything learned within this cohort, I can come out saying that this
experience was worth every bit and that I have a clear vision as to where exactly I
would like to go in the entertainment/film industry.

Being able to work with Theater 47 has been wonderful and being able to help
them improve their market strategy along the way was a blessing. I was able to help
them construct their brand and image on all social media platforms. Theater 47 helped
me as well with trusting me to help improve their brand to viewers and help spread the
world of their upcoming play, where they will be traveling for as well. I have taken in
every moment with them and was able to understand the marketing side in a
professional setting.

When I first joined the program, my main goal was to sharpen my skills in production. I didn't have much prior experience, so I was excited to learn the ropes. At the time, I thought the program would be all about technical training and production processes, but it turned out to be so much more.

Beyond the production workshops, we also had to go through DO! training (provided by Destiny Outreach), which I wasn't expecting. This training covered a variety of topics, including financial stability, resume building, and hearing from industry professionals about their career paths. We also learned about the many different jobs available in the industry beyond just production.

This training opened my eyes to a wider range of possibilities and taught me the importance of staying committed to a process, even if it changes. I especially enjoyed hearing the success stories from people who had to pivot their careers. It was a powerful reminder that it’s always okay to change your course, but it’s never okay to stop trying.

When I first started my Destiny Outreach Internship I was stepping outside my comfort zone since I didn’t have any real background in film. But after the first day of me being there I really felt like I was a part of a community instead of a business. Since my mentors, and colleagues had such a close relationship, I always felt important and more comfortable to reach out and ask questions. Even when I was sick I would have multiple people reaching out to me making sure that I was okay. This really made me realize how intimate the film industry truly is and because of the family that I found in Destiny Outreach. I came into this Internship thinking that I would learn how to take good photos and left the internship as a director of (short film) and a video editor. I have so many paths that have opened up to me and I’m really excited to see where life takes me.

Being part of the Destiny Outreach program gave me the opportunity to explore different career paths. The trainings were incredibly helpful, teaching us what to and what not to do in the film and production industry. We learned about the importance of good communication skills, the necessity of being on time—because being late can delay everything—and when it's appropriate to use our phones.

I also learned about "above the line" and "below the line" jobs. This program truly helped me achieve my goal of wanting to know more about film and production because we got to experience what a real production set would look like. It was extremely helpful to learn about and visually see what the film world is like in real life. I never would have expected to see how certain scenes are created.

This program really opened my eyes to many different things. One positive change that came from it is that I've learned how to speak in front of a crowd without feeling scared or nervous because everyone was so welcoming. I'm also not as shy as I was when I first started the program, and I have a clearer idea of what I might want to do career-wise.

During my time with TCG Collective, I had the opportunity to shadow team members and gain firsthand experience at events. I captured footage during pre-production and live activities, then edited the videos that were later shared on the company’s platforms. In addition to video production, I created holiday flyers allowing me to showcase and hone my design skills. I also delivered a presentation on marketing strategies, which helped me practice speaking and sharing ideas with a professional audience. These experiences strengthened my technical abilities while also building my communication, teamwork, and presentation skills for future opportunities

My time with Destiny’s Outreach (DO!) program was truly eventful and fulfilling.  As someone who was often going back and forth between where I wanted to take my career, I found myself having a much clearer vision of what that path would look like as my time with the program began winding down.  I received important skills such as on-the-job training, resume building, effective communication training which allowed me to really thrive at my host-site.  As a result of the training and insight I received in this program I will go into my final year of college feeling more confident about my major and the path that I am currently on as I prepare myself for a full-time career.

Brandon received work experience in the logistics industry along with Employability Training. Brandon expressed interest in becoming a Class A CDL Driver during the hiring process. The training covered multiple aspects of the package delivery industry, including on-road safety with a focus on defensive driving and distracted driving avoidance, proper loading and unloading techniques, behind-the-wheel training on public roads, package delivery procedures, vehicle pre-trip and post-trip inspections, customer service skills, time management and route optimization, and the use of technology such as GPS, handheld devices, and in-cab cameras.

Brandon went above and beyond by asking questions, shadowing delivery drivers, and staying late to better understand logistics challenges. At the end of the training program, Brandon was awarded full-time employment as a Driver Helper with a salary of $18 per hour and a benefits package that includes retirement savings, performance bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

Alexis received work experience in the logistics industry along with Employability Training. Alexis expressed interest in becoming a Class A CDL Driver during the hiring process. The training covered multiple aspects of the package delivery industry, including on-road safety with a focus on defensive driving and distracted driving avoidance, proper loading and unloading techniques, behind-the-wheel training on public roads, package delivery procedures, vehicle pre-trip and post-trip inspections, customer service skills, time management and route optimization, and the use of technology such as GPS, handheld devices, and in-cab cameras.

Alexis went above and beyond by asking questions, shadowing delivery drivers, and staying late to better understand logistics challenges. At the end of the training program, full-time employment as a Delivery Driver was awarded, with a salary of $23 per hour and a benefits package that includes retirement savings, performance bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

Dewayne focused on mastering delivery routes, ensuring timely deliveries, and providing excellent customer service. He took an active interest in understanding company operations by asking senior drivers for advice, learning how warehouse management worked, and assisting with scheduling deliveries.

In addition to delivery training, leadership development prepared him to train new drivers, provide feedback for improvements, manage delivery schedules efficiently, and communicate with customers to resolve concerns.

His strong work ethic quickly stood out. During a busy holiday season, when a fellow driver called in sick, leaving a large route incomplete, he volunteered to take on the extra deliveries, ensuring all packages arrived on time.

At the end of the training program, he was awarded full-time employment as a Lead Driver with a salary of $23.75 per hour. The benefits package includes retirement savings, performance bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

Dewayne's story demonstrates that, with dedication, a willingness to learn, and strong leadership skills, he rose to a management position and built a successful career in the logistics industry.

Angel received work experience in the logistics industry along with employability training. During the hiring process, Angel expressed interest in becoming a Trainer to help drivers provide excellent customer service. The training covered multiple aspects of the package delivery industry, including on-road safety with a focus on defensive driving and distracted driving avoidance, proper loading and unloading techniques, behind-the-wheel training on public roads, package delivery procedures, vehicle pre-trip and post-trip inspections, customer service skills, time management and route optimization, and the use of technology such as GPS, handheld devices, and in-cab cameras.

Angel exceeded expectations by asking questions, shadowing delivery drivers, and even staying late to better understand logistics challenges. At the conclusion of the training program, full-time employment as a Delivery Driver was awarded with a salary of $22.75 per hour. The benefits package includes retirement savings, performance bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

Future plans include enrolling in school to earn a Bachelor of Science in Communications.

Jesus received paid work experience and Employability Training to kick-start his career in the fast-paced delivery world. He quickly learned that being a good driver wasn’t just about driving well, but also about efficiency, customer service, and attention to detail.

He made it a point to understand every aspect of the delivery process. He familiarized himself with technology and vehicle maintenance and spent extra time learning the best ways to navigate different routes. Along the way, Jesus earned certifications in Amazon Delivery, Defensive Driving, and Customer Service Excellence.

He also recognized the importance of customer satisfaction. On one occasion, a customer was upset about a delayed package, so Jesus personally reached out, offered a solution, and ensured the issue was resolved smoothly. The customer was so impressed with his professionalism that they left a positive review praising his dedication.

At the end of the training program, Jesus was awarded full-time employment as a Delivery Driver, with a salary of $23 per hour and benefits that include retirement savings, performance bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

Looking ahead, Jesus plans to take ownership of his family’s landscaping business this summer, bringing the same professionalism and dedication to a new chapter of his career.

Meet Carlos, a young driver trainee who turned his Logistics and Employability training into a full-time career. With a passion for being on the road but little professional experience, he joined Victory Lap Logistics as part of the driver trainee program. His goal was simple: learn, improve, and secure a permanent position.
At the beginning of his training, Carlos had to master the basics, including vehicle safety checks, efficient route planning, and careful delivery handling. He spent time in the warehouse learning how packages were sorted, asked senior drivers about time-saving techniques, and researched ways to improve fuel efficiency.
Carlos’ most significant challenge was handling deliveries during peak hours in busy areas. Instead of getting frustrated, he analyzed traffic patterns and suggested alternative routes that helped reduce delays. His approach saved time and improved on-time delivery rates by 10 percent for his assigned routes.
At the end of the training program, Carlos was awarded full-time employment as a Driver Helper. He was offered a salary of $18 per hour and a benefits package that included retirement savings, bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement. Carlos plans to enroll in CDL School to earn a Class A Commercial Driver’s License.

Austin Surratt came to Wabash Area Development, Inc. for assistance enrolling in the CDL program at SIC. He had just moved back from Oklahoma, where he had been working with his uncle installing windows, and learned that he needed a CDL to drive larger delivery trucks. While living alone in Oklahoma, he couldn’t afford to both work and pay for classes, so he returned home, where his parents provided him a place to stay. Still, Austin struggled to find the money for the 4-week course.

He was directed to Wabash Area Development, Inc., to see if we could help with the cost of his classes. To his surprise, we were able to cover not only his books and tuition but also fuel costs and other expenses he incurred while attending.

Austin completed the 4-week course and obtained his CDL. Within a month, he was hired at Jung Trucking Services, Inc. Grateful for WADI’s support, he is now building a career and has become self-sufficient.

Samuel is an ambitious trainee who turned his paid work experience into a full-time job in the delivery industry. He knew that securing full-time employment would require more than completing training; it would take hard work, dedication, and a willingness to go the extra mile.

From day one, he focused on learning every aspect of the job, including safe and efficient driving practices, route optimization to avoid delays and improve fuel efficiency, and customer service to enhance the delivery experience. He also took the initiative to understand vehicle maintenance, package handling, and warehouse operations, asking experienced drivers for tips and studying traffic patterns to improve delivery efficiency.

By the end of his training period, he had proven reliability, efficiency, and strong customer service skills. He was awarded full-time employment as a Delivery Helper with a salary of $18 per hour and a benefits package that includes retirement savings, performance bonuses, health insurance, and tuition reimbursement.