Program Details

Brittney came to YWCA Metropolitan Chicago with an impressive educational and professional background, including a Bachelor's Degree in Communication, a Master's Degree in Kinesiology Health Promotion, and experience in the sports industry. While pursuing her graduate studies at the University of Kentucky, she gained valuable professional experience that helped strengthen her communication, customer service, and organizational skills. Motivated to expand her career opportunities and build additional marketable skills, Brittney enrolled in the JTED Program and participated in the Dawson ComEd CONSTRUCT Infrastructure Academy. The training exposed her to the construction, utility, and infrastructure industries while helping her build technical knowledge, workplace safety skills, and industry-recognized qualifications. Throughout her participation, Brittney demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and a strong willingness to learn. Despite encountering significant transportation challenges that threatened her ability to attend training consistently, she remained committed to completing the program. Recognizing these barriers, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago's JTED Program provided critical supportive services, including transportation assistance through gas cards and $937.13 in financial assistance for necessary automobile repairs. This support helped Brittney maintain reliable transportation, remain engaged in training, and continue progressing toward her goals. Through her perseverance and commitment, Brittney completed the CONSTRUCT Infrastructure Academy and earned her OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification, NCCER credentials, and Certificate of Completion. In addition to occupational training, Brittney received individualized career coaching, interview preparation, job search assistance, and career pathway guidance. These services supported her professional development and helped her identify opportunities that aligned with her experience, transferable skills, and career aspirations.

Employment Placement and Career Advancement

Brittney's journey also includes a significant employment milestone: securing employment with Ticketmaster/Live Nation at a starting wage of $23.51 per hour, equivalent to approximately $48,901 annually based on a 40-hour workweek. This placement represents an important step toward financial independence and career stability. By building on her educational background, previous professional experience, and workforce development services, Brittney has shown she can pursue meaningful employment while continuing to expand her professional qualifications. Although her employment placement is outside the construction industry, her participation in JTED provided additional credentials, technical knowledge, and professional development that broadened her long-term career options.

In Her Own Words

"My journey has taught me that challenges do not define me—they strengthen me. Every obstacle and accomplishment has shaped me into the person I am today and has given me the courage to keep moving."

The Impact of JTED

Brittney's story reflects the value of workforce development programs that address both employment readiness and the personal barriers that can prevent individuals from achieving their goals.

Through JTED, Brittney achieved several meaningful milestones: overcoming transportation challenges, completing occupational skills training, earning industry-recognized credentials, strengthening her career readiness, and progressing toward greater economic stability.

Her employment with Ticketmaster/Live Nation at $23.51 per hour is an additional positive outcome in her overall workforce journey.

Brittney's success demonstrates that when individuals receive the right combination of opportunity, training, individualized guidance, and supportive services, they can overcome obstacles and take meaningful steps toward lasting career success.