Engineering His Future: Rashad's Journey to Stability

WIOA Adult participant receives support from WorkSmart and finds employment at Exact Sciences

Rashad Anderson had the skills, ambition, and prior technical diplomas, but found that financial challenges were hindering him in the next step of his life - earning his Associate's degree in Electromechanical Technology at Madison College. With a family of six kids between him and his wife, the cost of commuting three days a week to the Truax campus in Madison was a huge financial struggle.

WIOA Adult participant Rashad Anderson (center) celebrating with his children at Madison College Commencement Ceremony in December 2024.

His wife, who had received assistance from the program while earning her Nursing degree, had expressed how much WorkSmart helped her. That's when Rashad spoke to Career Planner Greta Schaller-Alonso and got connected to the WorkSmart Network.

With guidance from Greta and the WorkSmart team, Rashad was able to be reimbursed for his mileage and complete his degree. Even before graduation, his hard work paid off — he secured a position at Exact Sciences as a Technical Support Engineer, earning $57 an hour.

This role not only provided a significant wage increase but also gave him the stability he had long worked for. As a formerly incarcerated individual, Rashad shared that getting support with his education and having financial security for his family was a huge deal to him.

"Greta has been such a godsend ... Because of WorkSmart, I was able to continue my education, graduate, and land this role where I'm finally able to provide for my family."

When speaking with Peter Dettmer, Department Chair and Program Director of Madison College’s Electromechanical Training program, as well as Anderson’s Capstone Course Instructor, he only had the highest praise for the former student.

“Rashad was an incredible driven and skilled individual. His background experience was impressive, and he contributed tremendously to the team. He worked collaboratively, taking on some of the more advanced programming tasks, and truly stood out as a remarkable individual.”

Rashad expressed the utmost gratitude for Greta and the WorkSmart program. "Greta has been such a godsend ... WorkSmart's been able to provide transportation support, assist with resume writing, and help me align my goals into actionable steps," Rashad shared. "Because of WorkSmart, I was able to continue my education, graduate, and land this role where I'm finally able to provide for my family.

Now, with a promising career and financial security, Rashad is setting his sights on the future. He hopes to return to school to earn his Bachelor's in Computer Science, aiming to become a Controls Engineer. His journey to career and financial stability speaks on the ability to turn your life around and the power of supportive systems like the WorkSmart Network. Congratulations, Rashad - we're excited to support you on your journey!