Program Details

At just 22, Mahdi has already overcome tremendous challenges. Mahdi was pursuing his bachelor's degree when he was forced to flee his home country. After arriving in the United States, he found work at the airport to support himself, but the job offered little opportunity for advancement. Although he was grateful to be employed, he felt frustrated knowing he was underemployed given that his education, ambition, and potential were not being fully utilized.
After dreaming with his brother of starting a CDL business together, Mahdi became interested in trucking as a pathway to a stable, long-term career. After hearing about World Relief's Career Pathways program through community members, he visited the office to learn more about how he could transition into the transportation industry.
When Mahdi enrolled in the JTED program, he faced both financial and cultural barriers that made pursuing training more difficult. Through JTED, he received individualized career counseling, guidance on training options, and support in developing a plan to achieve his goals. Staff helped him explore CDL schools, understand the licensing process, and take the steps needed to enter the profession.
With support from JTED, Mahdi pursued CDL training at Mid-City Truck Driving Academy and worked toward earning the credentials needed to enter the trucking industry. Throughout the process, he stayed focused on building a better future for himself and remained committed to a career with opportunities for growth and financial stability. The financial assistance and ongoing encouragement he received through the program helped remove barriers that might otherwise have prevented him from completing training.
After obtaining his CDL, Mahdi began applying for driving positions and exploring opportunities in the industry. His hard work paid off when he secured employment with one of the nation's largest transportation companies. He soon began training for his new role, marking a major milestone in his career journey.
Today, Mahdi works as a truck driver and is building a future in a field that excites him. What started as a desire to move beyond a job with limited opportunities has become the beginning of a meaningful career with room for advancement and long-term success.
Mahdi's story demonstrates the impact that career counseling, training support, and employment services can have on motivated individuals seeking a fresh start. Through determination, hard work, and support from World Relief's JTED program, he turned a dream into reality and is now driving toward a brighter future.