WAI participant finds success in trucking industry following CDL program completion.
Ever Zelaya, a recent graduate of the CDL program offered in collaboration with the Latino Academy of Workforce Development, has found his success on the highway through the transportation industry. With support from grant-funded incentives to complete the program, Ever was able to find full-time employment at Schneider National as a bulk driver transporting hazardous chemicals.
Ever connected with the Latino Academy to pursue the CDL Class A course in February 2024, and the Worker Advancement Initiative (WAI) grant incentivized program completion so participants could pursue training without losing income.
At the end of March 2024, Ever passed his exam and earned his license! With the help of WIOA staff, he then began his job search, eventually finding success through his current driving position in July 2024 earning $1,200 a week.
In between pit stops, Ever was able to reflect on his experience. “I would like to thank the Latino Academy of Workforce Development and the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin for creating a great program for the community and helping me complete the CDL program. Being able to get my CDL has changed my life in an astonishing way. I can’t wait to see where my journey with Schneider National will lead me. I can’t thank everyone enough.”
Through the collaborative power between WDBSCW, the Latino Academy, and workforce development initiatives, individuals like Ever are able to secure well-paying jobs. By providing access to guidance, hands-on training, financial assistance, and more, workers can gain the confidence and skills needed to find the right job for them.