Upon regaining his freedom, Ha’im was driven by a strong desire to make a positive impact, particularly in the lives of at-risk youth. He aspired to reduce gang violence and ultimately pursue a career as a social worker. However, transitioning back into society proved challenging. Ha’im was working labor-intensive jobs upon release to support his financial needs, but these jobs were not helping him get any closer to his goals.

Seeking guidance, he turned to WorkSource Southwest Washington in Vancouver for support. With the assistance of his case manager Nicole and the Thrive Program, Ha’im received essential aid in his job search. Through resume assistance, LinkedIn Learning training, and targeted job referrals, he took strides toward his goal. His perseverance paid off when he obtained an interview for the Youth Resource Coordinator position at Longview Goodwill. At his interview Ha’im was offered the job on the spot, securing a role aligned with his passion for serving young adults.

With employment secured, the support from WorkSource continues through vital assistance such as gas vouchers and work clothing. As Ha’im settles into his new role as Youth Resource Coordinator, the ongoing support from WorkSource equips him with the necessary resources for job retention, enabling him to thrive and grow in his career.

The post Changing Lives: Ha’im’s Story appeared first on Equus Workforce Solutions.

As a young adult Brendan was struggling to find the right track on his career path. Through a powerful partnership, Brendan discovered the pit crew pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship program at Trackhouse Racing in Concord, North Carolina.

Brendan dropped out of community college with a desire to create a fresh start. His previous work history included fast food, landscaping and HVAC. Brendan had no experience as a mechanic or with a race car pit crew. Brendan connected with the NCWorks Centralina NEXTGEN team who introduced him to the pre-apprenticeship program at Trackhouse Racing. Trackhouse Racing Director of Apprenticeship Phil Foster, ApprenticeshipNC Consultant Sylvia Jones and NEXTGEN Program Leader Monica Gramling worked together to enroll Brendan in NEXTGEN WIOA Youth Services and start his journey as a pre-apprentice.

The NEXTGEN team provided Brendan with work experience assistance, offering a source of income and continual support as he worked to complete the pre-apprenticeship program. Brendan successfully completed the pre-apprenticeship/work experience program in April 2022 which led to full-time employment with Trackhouse Racing. He then transitioned to Trackhouse’s two-year apprenticeship program. “NCWorks has definitely helped me find a passion for racing that I wouldn’t have even known about,” Brendan shared.

His success continued when Brendan worked as an over-the-wall pit crew member for the winning team at NASCAR’s first-ever Cup Series Street Race in Chicago in July 2023! Brendan’s story is a testament to the possibilities that arise when opportunity meets determination, and teamwork drives success.

This impact was achieved through partnership between the Centralina Workforce Development Board, NCWorks Centralina NEXTGEN Youth Program, ApprenticeshipNC, Trackhouse Racing and Equus Workforce Solutions.

Watch Brendan’s Story Here

The post Changing Lives: Brendan’s Story appeared first on Equus Workforce Solutions.

Resources discussed in the episode include:

• American Immigration Council’s Map the Impact
• Global Talent Bridge: US Program Map
• WES Canada Employer Playbook

The post E49: Gateway to Global Talent appeared first on Equus Workforce Solutions.

With a clear goal of becoming a Certified Welder, Emily diligently attended daily workshops, where she honed her resume and navigated the complexities of job searching. Her dedication paid off when she successfully secured an apprenticeship with the Omaha Carpenters & Millwright Union. This opportunity not only offered a steady salary and health benefits but also included valuable training, elevating Emily’s skills and opening doors to a fulfilling career.

Since starting her apprenticeship in May 2023, Emily has achieved multiple certifications, and has become an active member of the Carpenters Local Union 427 and the Millwright Local Union 1463. She has taken on a leadership role as the Recording Chairwoman of the Sisters in the Brotherhood Union Women’s Group and was selected as a delegate to the Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference in Washington D.C. where she furthered her dedication to empowering women in the trades.

No longer living paycheck to paycheck, she finds fulfillment in her work and actively contributes to the community. Emily’s collaboration with other Employment First program participants and the Otoe County Community Navigator for the Nebraska City Parents’ Project demonstrates her commitment to giving back and supporting local parents in need.

Emily credits Equus Workforce Solutions and the Employment First Program for providing with her the tools, knowledge, and positive atmosphere needed to succeed. In her own words, “As a single parent I was always striving to be the best mother and person I could be. The positivity of the job readiness workshop was just the nudge I needed. I felt like I could really thrive in the atmosphere they provided. Kindness and believing in someone really does go a long way”.

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Akeem

Akeem was an experienced bike repairman whose career was abruptly halted by injury. With the support of the Equus WeCARE team, Akeem rediscovered interest in customer service and security. The team assisted Akeem in obtaining security training certificates and licenses, opening doors to fresh opportunities.

In May 2023, Akeem embarked on a new chapter as a remote customer service agent. The accommodation provided by his employer resonated with him, fostering a sense of satisfaction in his work. Akeem’s journey didn’t end there; he continued to reach new heights. Shortly after obtaining his NYS Security license, Akeem embraced a security position while also working as a customer service agent.

Today, Akeem successfully manages both roles, a testament to his resilience and determination. Akeem not only transitioned from a setback but transformed it into an opportunity for a fulfilling and diverse career.

Alejandro

In March 2023, Alejandro embarked on a transformative journey despite initially facing academic challenges. Over the next four months, he dedicated himself to immersive workshops, job coaching and a relentless job search.

With support from his Business Service Coordinator and team, Alejandro’s tenacity paid off when he secured a position as a Maintenance/Porter in May 2023.

Fast forward to today—Alejandro is thriving in his role. His success is not just confined to employment; thanks to the collaborative efforts of the team, Alejandro is now on the waiting list for an apartment with help from the Mutual Housing Association of New York.

On International Day of People with Disability, we celebrate Alejandro and the countless others who continue to redefine what’s possible.

Andrea

In 2018, Andrea was involved in a motor vehicle accident. As a result of the accident, Andrea was unable to return to her previous job as a hairdresser. In 2023, Andrea was referred to WeCARE’s vocational program and expressed a strong desire to return to school to obtain her GED and to reach her employment goals.

She attended daily workshops and worked collaboratively with the team, researching various school programs and self-employment positions.

Through hard work, perseverance and the support of her dedicated vocational team, Andrea successfully navigated the path to enroll in the College of Staten Island’s GED prep program. Andrea will attend the program in January and hopes to obtain self-employment in the future.

Her journey inspires anyone navigating unforeseen challenges in their career path.

Kimaleana

Once a client navigating complex health barriers, Kimaleana seized the opportunity to not only overcome her challenges but to become an integral part of the team. Starting as a client, she emerged as a beacon of resilience and empowerment, ultimately joining Equus Workforce Solutions as an Assessment Specialist.

During her time as a program participant, Kimaleana honed a diverse set of skills to manage her health barriers and prepare for a return to work. Recognizing an opening within the organization, she applied for the Assessment Specialist position. Since joining the team, Kimaleana ascended to the role of Employment Coach within two years.

As an Employment Coach, Kimaleana imparts valuable skills and serves as a living testament that obstacles can be overcome. Her ability to face adversity head-on, achieve her personal and professional goals, and, most importantly, return to work for the program that once supported her is a powerful narrative of triumph.

On International Day of People with Disability, Kimaleana is a shining example, proving that individuals can transform their challenges into stepping stones for success. She shows us that true empowerment comes not just from overcoming barriers but from using those experiences to uplift and guide others on their journey to success.

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Tiffany is listed among 50 awardees who are noted by Women We Admire as courageous, passionate and committed. These women are leaders in policy changes and consulting, educational advancements, financial services and more. They are leaders in their profession and dedicate themselves to the success of the organizations they serve.

Tiffany joined Equus in July 2021 and in her role drives workforce-centric community impact partnerships at a local, regional and national level.

Please join us in congratulating Tiffany on this well-deserved award!

Women We Admire provides news and information on today’s women leaders across many fields, and aims to recognize the achievements of exceptional women while inspiring others to aim high.

Click this link for the full article.

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Equus has partnered with InsideTrack, part of the Strada Education Network, to launch a young adult mentoring pilot project with an evidence-based mentoring framework delivered by expert mentors. For young adults just starting out on a career path, working with a mentor can make a profound difference in their professional growth and development.

Through a blend of one-on-one support, multichannel communication and digital resources, InsideTrack Coaches empower young adults with the attention, guidance and motivation they need to define and pursue an impactful career path. This expert coaching is approached with trauma-informed, healing-centered and resilience-building awareness – intended to meet participants exactly where they are, no matter where that may be.

The mentoring project is designed to help participants shape and define their long-term goals, build social capital and navigate the complexity of being a young adult. Coaching focuses on partnering to help participants:

• Define primary motivations, personal objectives and long-term goals that encompass post-secondary education, career and personal trajectories
• Build a comprehensive plan, utilizing work and education, to help participants achieve their education, career and personal goals
• Understand how to access and utilize available resources and supports to help them on their journey
• Provide guidance and motivation about the real-world challenges and obstacles that participants face

InsideTrack Coaches also collect insights and trends that will allow Equus and workforce system partners to better understand young adult participants and drive meaningful impact.

We are excited to partner with the following workforce boards as pilot sites:

• Charlotte Works (NC)
• Monterey County Workforce Development Board (CA)
• South Central Workforce Development Board – SCPa Works (PA)
• Workforce Connections (NV)

Equus and InsideTrack’s partnership is positioned to strengthen engagement, help young adults take action to reach their career goals and stay motivated as well as increase participation and utilization of other support services. For more information, contact partnerships@equusworks.com.

About Equus Workforce Solutions

Equus Workforce Solutions^® is a comprehensive provider of workforce development services in North America. Equus offers a full continuum of solutions focused on increasing opportunities for individuals and families and fostering the competitiveness of business. This happens one person and one family at a time through client-centered approaches, committed team members and robust business and community partnerships.

About InsideTrack

InsideTrack is a 501c3 nonprofit coaching organization that empowers change and delivers tailored outcomes. They are on a mission to fuel social mobility and close equity gaps by advancing all individuals forward to achieve their educational and career goals through the power of coaching.

Since their founding in 2001, they’ve supported more than 2.9 million individuals and have partnered with more than 300 organizations. InsideTrack’s Coaching Methodology has been recognized as high-impact and research-confirmed by the U.S. Department of Education What Works Clearinghouse of Evidence Based Practices.

About Strada Education Network

Strada Education Network is a national nonprofit dedicated to helping people take advantage of education and training after high school that helps them secure a good job, do meaningful work, contribute to their communities, and lead a fulfilling life. Strada helps students succeed beyond completion of a certificate or degree through its research, charitable grants, and social impact investments, as and through the work of Strada-supported nonprofit organizations CAEL, Education at Work, InsideTrack, and Roadtrip Nation, which directly serve learners and workers. Learn more at stradaeducation.org.

The post Equus Launching New Young Adult Mentoring Pilot with National Nonprofit InsideTrack appeared first on Equus Workforce Solutions.

Equus is excited to partner with the following organizations to support Registered Apprenticeship expansion:

• Bayada Home Health Care, Inc. (Rhode Island): BAYADA provides high-quality home health care in 23 states. Incentive funds will support the expansion for Home Health Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses.
• Craft Education System, Inc. (California, National): The Craft Education System is a data system purpose-built for facilitating apprenticeship-based pathways in industries that require trainees to hold accredited degrees and credentials. Incentive funds will support the development and expansion of Registered Apprenticeship Programs in the teaching industry.
• Idaho Health Care Association (Idaho): The Idaho Health Care Association will use this award to operate a Certified Nursing Assistant program to support their Skilled Nursing Home members.
• MedCertify (Kentucky-based, National): MedCertify offers online training for healthcare, dental and information technology. Incentive funds will support the implementation of their Medical Assistant program with their employer partners.
• NC Nursing Academy (North Carolina): NC Nursing Academy will use this award to provide high-quality Certified Nurse Aide training to students and offer candidate pipelines to area hospitals, long-term care facilities, pharmacies and healthcare agencies operating a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
• People, Inc. (New York): People Inc. is a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency supporting individuals with disabling conditions or other special needs. Equus is serving as the sponsor for their Licensed Practical Nursing program and is providing an incentive award to support program expansion.
• Rodham Institute (Washington, D.C.): The Institute seeks to apply the transformative power of education to achieve health equity in Washington, D.C. Equus is providing an incentive award to support the expansion of their Certified Nursing Assistant program.
• ScionHealth (Kentucky): ScionHealth strives to provide quality-driven, patient-centered acute and post-acute hospital solutions across 79 hospital campuses in 25 states. Equus is serving as a placeholder sponsor and incentive funds will support the expansion of their apprenticeship programs.
• Seven Counties Services (Kentucky): Seven Counties Services is a Community Mental Health Center that offers a full range of mental and behavioral health services, substance abuse treatment and intellectual and developmental disabilities services in the greater Louisville region. Incentive funds will support the Behavioral Health Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Click here to learn more about opportunities to partner with Equus to develop or expand your Registered Apprenticeship Program.

This Industry Intermediary for Registered Apprenticeship project is supported by the Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration under Contract number, 1605C2-20-C-0016. A total of $1,286,855 or 100% is financed with federal funds.

The contents of this publication do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement of same by the U.S. Government.

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The award recognizes:

• Equus’ Business for Women certification course developed in partnership with Workforce180, designed to assist women in our organization and throughout the workforce industry to become empowered to navigate their own career pathways.
• Equus’ work with employers and industry partners to develop and expand registered apprenticeships, with a focus on under-represented populations, including women.
• The organization’s commitment to encourage open conversation about the opportunities and challenges faced by women in the workforce industry, including the “Women In Leadership” podcast series to discuss overcoming the challenges women face in the workplace and in leadership.

Judges commended Equus for “a proven track record of valuing the importance of women in the workplace” and “an organization where diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of what they do.”

The Stevie® Awards for Women in Business honor inclusive companies, women executives, entrepreneurs and employees worldwide. Read more about the 2022 winning organizations here.

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