Success Stories

Success Story - Finding the Right Path

Success Story - Finding the Right Path

Published: March 20, 2024

At CareerSource Capital Region, we understand that finding the right job can be daunting, especially in a challenging job market. That's why we offer a range of programs designed to help career seekers at any stage of their career journey. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff is committed to working with each individual to assess their unique needs and help them find the right program for them. 

Whether you're a recent graduate looking to enter the workforce for the first time or a seasoned professional seeking a career change, we have programs that can help. Our offerings include job training programs, career counseling services, resume-building workshops, and job search assistance. At CareerSource Capital Region, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals.  

Earlier this year, a young and motivated job seeker visited our Leon County Career Center in Tallahassee. He was ready to change his life by pursuing a career that involved working with his hands. Despite facing some challenges and past issues, he approached one of our trusted career advisors with a committed mindset to turn his life around and put himself on the right path. 

CareerSource Capital Region’s Learn, Earn, and Advance Program (LEAP) is a comprehensive program that aims to provide teens and young adults with a wide range of support services to pursue their educational and vocational aspirations. The program focuses on helping participants complete their studies, access post-secondary education or training, and secure employment opportunities. 

Brendon O'Gilvie, one of CareerSource Capital Region’s professional staff members, was helping this young career seeker find a suitable program for his career change. After carefully analyzing the career seeker's skills, interests, and goals, Brendon suggested that the LEAP program would be the perfect fit. LEAP offers career guidance, mentorship, and training modules to connect individuals with paid internships that align with their aspirations.  

During his participation in LEAP’s paid internship program, he demonstrated exceptional performance, leaving a lasting impression on his worksite supervisor. As the program concluded, the LEAP participant was presented with an exciting opportunity to embark on the state apprentice program for maintenance. This significant step is likely to lead to a full-time position with Student Housing Solutions, cementing his path toward a brighter future. 

We conducted an interview with Brendon O’Gilvie, a Job Developer who assisted this particular career seeker to gain an insight into his experience. According to Brendon, "When the career seeker came to us, he had very few skills and experienced transportation problems." We provided him with the necessary help to overcome these obstacles which were hindering his job search. Brendon was deeply moved by the career seeker's story, particularly his determined effort. "His efforts as a young man to make something for himself spoke volumes to me," noted Brendon.  

Through our services, the participant achieved more than Brendon had expected, and he saw tangible results. "I feel incredibly proud of the career seeker and the support we were able to offer him. He still calls me at least once a week to seek life and career advice," added Brendon. The positive impact that CareerSource Capital Region had on this LEAP participant left a deep impression on Brendon. "I see the impact that our services have left on him. I am incredibly impressed by the results that have been achieved through his story." 

Starting Your Path with LEAP! 

The Learn, Earn, and Advance Program (LEAP) is a comprehensive no-cost program designed to provide support to young individuals in their educational and vocational pursuits. The program aims to help them complete their studies, access post-secondary education or training, and secure employment opportunities. 

LEAP offers a range of services, including academic support like tutoring, mentoring, and study skills development. The program also helps with career exploration, job search strategies, and resume writing. Additionally, eligible participants can receive financial aid and scholarships to help cover the costs of tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses. 

LEAP's goal is to empower young individuals to achieve their full potential and contribute to the workforce and the community. By providing them with the necessary tools and resources, LEAP aims to help them build a brighter and more promising future for themselves and their families. 

If you are between the ages of 16-24 and are interested in participating in the LEAP Program, contact our team today

 

Written by: Hayley Brown, Marketing and Administrative Specialist CareerSource Capital Region