California
Workforce Success Story Submitted By:
County of Santa Cruz
Meet Abel
Workforce Challenge
In February, 2010, Abel was laid off from his job cutting wood for a building materials supplier after 20 years of service. He had no other job skills and needed assistance finding training to develop new skills that would make him more marketable in his job search.
Workforce Solution
At the workforce center, Abel was given an assessment that confirmed the lack of demand for his existing skills. The staff helped Abel look at training options and he decided to pursue a Commercial Drivers (Class B) license because he loves to drive and also enjoys interacting with people. This certification would allow him to drive passenger vans or buses, in addition to smaller trucks. Abel was enrolled in a CDL course at Michael's Transportation, where he completed his training and obtained his class B license with passenger endorsements. He quickly graduated and began looking for employment, eager to get back to work before his unemployment benefits ended.
Outcomes & Benefits
Michael's Transportation really enjoyed having Mr. Fuerte as a student. They enjoyed his personality and decided to offer him a job upon graduation. In October, 2010, Abel was hired by Michaels Transportation and is now happily working as a bus driver. He has really enjoyed his new career. Congratulations, Abel!

