Program Details

Kierson came to The Workforce Connection after learning he qualified for the Trade program due to being a dislocated worker from Chrysler. At the time, Kierson was unemployed and unsure what his next step would be. Once learning he could attend training leading to a career, he decided to invest in his education and work towards learning skills that lead to a career. Kierson explained he was apprehensive about returning to school after graduating high school 20 years earlier. However, he wanted to do this for himself and his daughter's future. He knew it would be difficult as a single father of a daughter with special needs, but he was ready and motivated to accomplish his career goals. With assistance from his Career Planner, Kierson enrolled in the Welding program at Rockford Career College. After the 8-month program, he earned his Diploma in Welding! Two weeks after graduating, he obtained a position at Hennig Inc. as a Welder. Kierson enjoys his new job and says he enjoys utilizing his new skills. His latest employment provides a livable wage and benefits, including health insurance, which is particularly important to him and his daughter. He stated, “Without the opportunity of this program, there was no option for me to go to school. I would have had to find another job; now I have something to build from.” Kierson is continuing to add career goals and is preparing to take his aptitude test for the Local 23 Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship program! When asked if he wanted to share anything about his success and the program, he said, “He highly recommends the program to anyone eligible and that they would be a fool not to take advantage of it!”

Congratulations Kierson! We are so proud of your accomplishments and look forward to seeing you continue to succeed in your new career!