Curious about Success Stories in the Youth Program? Explore Inspiring Journeys Here!
How do you know if this program will work for you?One of the best ways to recognize the program’s benefits is through success stories of others just like you.
Torrance County
Amber, a 22-year-old female, was interested in achieving her Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) when she came to the WCCNM Torrance Office. Youth Development Practitioner John Morin collaborated with Career Development Specialist Saul Araque to co-enroll Amber in both the WIOA Youth and WIOA Adult Programs. Amber was able to receive funding through the WIOA Adult Program and Supportive Services in the form of Mileage Reimbursement to help alleviate the cost of fuel spent driving from her home to her training provider’s campus, through the WIOA Youth Program. As an added bonus Amber received $100 Incentive Pay for achieving her CDL, since she was enrolled in the WIOA Youth Program. On March 14, 2024, Amber took and passed her CDL behind the wheel test and earned her CDL.
Sandoval County
Mikayla, a resilient 22-year-old, enrolled in the WIOA Youth Program in March of 2022, and embarked on a journey to obtain her Veterinary Assistant certification despite facing formidable barriers in her life. Graduating from PIMA on November 1, 2022, Mikayla’s determination and perseverance have been evident throughout her pursuit. This delves into Mikayla’s participation in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth program, highlighting her accomplishments, challenges, and unwavering commitment to her professional goals. Mikayla’s path to obtaining her Veterinary Assistant certification was fraught with challenges. As a young woman navigating through life’s uncertainties, she encountered various barriers that could have deterred her from pursuing her dreams. Financial constraints, academic pressures, and personal obligations were just a few of the obstacles she faced along the way. Despite these challenges, Mikayla remained steadfast in her determination to overcome them and achieve her goals. Recognizing the need for support and guidance, Mikayla enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth program. This program provided her with invaluable resources, mentorship, and opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge in the field of veterinary assistance. Through WIOA, Mikayla received assistance with academics, career counseling, and financial incentives for her achievements, such as completing her Post TABE assessment and maintaining exemplary grades. Mikayla’s commitment to academic excellence was evident throughout her journey. Not only did she excel in her coursework at PIMA, but she also demonstrated outstanding performance in her post-assessment exams. Her dedication and hard work were further rewarded with incentive pay for her exceptional grades, reflecting her unwavering commitment to her education and career advancement. Additionally, Mikayla’s employment at VCA Animal Hospital provided her with invaluable hands-on experience in the veterinary field, allowing her to further develop her skills and expertise. Mikayla Peck’s journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite encountering numerous challenges along the way, Mikayla remained unwavering in her pursuit of obtaining her Veterinary Assistant certification. Through her participation in the WIOA Youth program, Mikayla received the support and resources necessary to overcome barriers and achieve her goals. Her academic excellence, professional growth, and unwavering commitment to her dreams are a source of inspiration to others facing similar challenges. As Mikayla continues to forge ahead on her path to success, her success story serves as a reminder that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.
Valencia County
18-year-old Sandra was enrolled into the WIOA Youth Program in Valencia County in February 2023 while she was a senior at Century High School in Los Lunas, NM. She graduated in May 2023.
After successfully completing all program requirements she was placed with a local attorney firm as a Legal Clerk. She completed 300 work experience hours in July 2023 with outstanding reviews by all attorneys located in the office. Her bi-lingual skills (Spanish) have been a tremendous benefit to staff when dealing with clients.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my position with the attorneys who treat me with a great deal of respect. They are training me in the “trenches” in the legal field. Sandra states “I have been able to assist in providing research for motions which have been provided in several cases. I have been able to attend court proceedings. It is fast paced once a trial begins. Very, exciting.”
In the course of her employment position, she has had the opportunity to meet a broad section of society both as clients and professionals. Her future goal is to become a paralegal and eventually earn her law degree.
Sandra further stated, “The WIOA Program really helped me to begin a career path towards that goal. Without the support and guidance of this program I would not be where I am at such a young age. I will forever be grateful for this assistance and enlightening experience.”
Michael Sanchez, her Supervisor and business owner had this to say about Sandra. “She is very efficient and great with our clients. Works very hard and is 100% dependable. We as lawyers are very happy to have her part of our team. She is pleasant to be around and makes the office a better place to work in. If she decides to continue in the legal field, she will do very well. We will support and guide her along the way.”
Sandra is currently employed by Michael Sanchez, Attorney at Law as a Legal Clerk.
Torrance County
Louriani came to the WIOA Youth Program in August of 2022. At that time, she was interested in enrolling in the program so that she could participate in Paid Work Experience and she planned to attend an on-line Interior Design training program that was not eligible for the WIOA grant funding.
Louriani completed her Paid Work Experience on June 16, 2023. Around the same time, she expressed to her Youth Development Practitioner that she was interested in pursuing her Dental Assistant Certificate. She had learned more about the possibility and that she wanted to complete her Dental Assistant Certificate training at PIMA Medical Institute. Louriani was able to receive funding through the WIOA Youth grant to help her pay for her Dental Assistant training program at PIMA. As an added support Louriani was also able to receive reimbursement to help with the cost of her gas mileage.
On January 19, 2024, Louriani passed her DANB for Radiation Health and Safety and received a Certificate. Louriani hopes to continue her career as a Dental Assistant.
Bernalillo County
Marissa joined the WIOA Youth Program in August of 2023. She qualified for the program as basic skills deficient, a drop out, and low income.
When she enrolled in the program, she talked about her limited experience as a waitress in Mountainair and how she left school in the 6th grade. Marissa moved to Albuquerque to obtain her HiSET and find employment in the medical field and had the support of her aunt driving her to succeed.
During her time enrolled in the program Marissa started the ABE class through YDI and completed her work experience with Beehive Homes. Marissa was hired on through Beehive as of December of 2023. She is still attending YDI ABE and plans to obtain her High School Equivalency by June of this year.
Marissa has achieved so much during her time in the program. While her barriers are still present she persists. She has found stable employment, found housing for herself, and is determined to be successful.
Bernalillo County
24-year-old Zaira joined the WIOA Youth Program in February of 2023. Zaira was referred to the program by Pima Medical Institute after learning more about the training provider’s Practical Nursing program. She qualified for the program as Basic Skills Deficient and low income.
Later, Zaira began attending Pima where she maintained a GPA greater than 2.0. She also completed the TABE post-test and increased her scores by four grade levels.
Zaira recently completed her training at Pima and received her Practical Nursing Certificate. She plans to take her NCLEX exam in April and once she passes she will begin employment in the Emergency Department at Presbyterian Hospital where she has already accepted a position.
Zaira plans to continue her education at CNM planning to become a Registered Nurse.
Valencia County
Kaplina, was 18 years old when she enrolled in the WIOA Youth program. Upon intake, Kaplina was living in a homeless shelter and struggling with life and how to make it better for herself. Kaplina was also enrolled at Los Lunas High School.
Basic Skills Deficient in reading and math. Kaplina completed 5 hours of tutoring. Kaplina made strides to come in complete work readiness training known as BEST (Basic Employability Skills Training) her work experience was at the Los Lunas Library where she hopes one day, she will obtain her Librarian degree with the help of the Homeless Youth Scholarship at UNM in Valencia County. She obtained work experience in the field of interest where she completed 300 hours of work experience.
Supervisor, Catherine Best gave Kaplina great remarks, for her stellar work ethic, motivation, crafty nature, and engagement with the children that she served while at the Los Lunas Library.
While in the WIOA Youth program Kaplina obtained her High School Diploma and received an incentive for both Diploma and EFL for Post TABE increase in her scores. Recently she successfully completed her work experience activity. Kaplina is thankful for the opportunity the WIOA Youth Program has provided for her, from assistance with obtaining her work experience at the library and helping to confirm her career goal. With the help of the program, she was able to successfully receive training in a career she is passionate about. Due to Kaplina’s positive experience she continues to refer other youth to the program. Kaplina shows that no matter what the circumstances of life are, there is a way to persevere and that it is not how or what level you start, it is how one lands that is the true test of one’s zest for life and zeal to succeed.
Valencia County
On August 16, 2023, Taylor came to the Workforce Connection, Valencia County office. She was seeking assistance with tuition for college. Upon in-take she was employed a Presbyterian Medical Group practice in Los Lunas as a Patient Access Advocate. At the time of her intake she was considered Basic Skills Deficient in reading and math.
When Taylor graduated from Clayton High School on May 27, 2022, she moved to Belen to live with her grandparents. She was enrolled and accepted at PIMA Medical Institute on October 20, 2022, for the Practical Nursing Program and began classes on November 2, 2022. Later in February 2023 she changed her major at Pima and began the Dental Assistant Program.
Taylor ended her employment to focus on her coursework. Later she found she needed job assistance. She completed four hours of Basic Employability Skills Training and five hours of tutoring, before she starting her work experience.
Taylor also received Supportive Services. She was able to take advantage of transportation reimbursement while attending training at Pima. She also received Incentive Pay for completing her TABE post-test and increasing her educational functioning level as well as maintaining a ‘C’ average or above at Pima and her Dental Assisting certificate.
Taylor was a very successful participant in the WIOA Youth Program. When Taylor first started the program, she was unsure of what she wanted to do and now she has started her career as a Dental Assistant at Belen Family Dentistry. She is ready to assist the community of Valencia County in maintaining their beautiful smiles. Additionally, Taylor received a pay increase after passing her DANB exam.
Taylor is thankful for the help that the WIOA Youth Program provided for her, from assistance with tuition for college, getting a job, transportation assistance, tutoring, and the guidance that all of sthe Youth Practitioners and the program provided for her. With the help of the program, she was able to successfully complete her college courses and obtain a career. She is grateful for what the WIOA Program does for the Youth of Valencia County.
Sandoval County
Estefani’s journey began with challenges, but her determination and the support of the WIOA Youth Program transformed her story into one of triumph. At 20 years old, she faced the daunting task of balancing her education with the responsibilities of being a young parent. However, with the guidance of the program, Estefani embraced the opportunity to pursue her dreams.
After being referred by Pima Medical Institute in May 2022, Estefani seized the chance to enroll in the WIOA Youth program which provided essential funding for her schooling. With unwavering dedication, she completed rigorous classes and obtained her certificate in medical assisting by January 31, 2023. Her achievement was not only a testament to her perseverance but also earned her a well- deserved reward of $100.00.
Empowered by her success, Estefani embarked on a new chapter of her journey, joining Retreat Healthcare as a medical assistant on June 01, 2023. Her commitment to excellence was evident as she not only excelled in her role but also demonstrated significant academic growth. Estefani’s determination shone brightly when undertook the POST Tabe Test, surpassing her previous scores by two levels. Her remarkable progress earned her an incentive payment of $200.00, a testament to her dedication and hard work.
But Estefani’s story doesn’t end here. Fueled by her passion for making a difference, she sets her sights on furthering her education. With a clear vision of her future, Estefani is now pursuing a Child Development certificate at CNM, laying the foundation for her ultimate goal of obtaining an associate’s degree in Multicultural Education. Her ambition to work with children reflects her compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on future generations.
As Estefani continues her journey, she serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that with perseverance, support, and determination, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome. Her success story is a testament to the transformative power of education and unwavering spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their circumstances.
Bernalillo County
Iris, 17, is an in school youth who came to the Workforce Connection office with her mom and enrolled into the WIOA Youth Program in August of 2023. Iris was referred to the program by her school counselor. She qualified for the program as basic skills deficient and low income. She is a high school senior at Mark Armijo Academy and is expected to graduate in May of 2024. Iris was placed for work experience at Inteli-Care as an Office Assistant. Iris successfully completed her work experience activity in January 2024. Impressed by her work ethic and progress, she gained permanent employment at the worksite. After gaining experience and long-term employment in the field, Iris plans to continue her education in the medical field after her graduation.
Sandoval County
Matthew came into the Workforce office looking for assistance in finding a career. He was told about NMWF resources by his grandmother whom he lives with after his mother recently passed away. Matthew is 21 years old and recently obtained his GED from CNM in May. Matthew hopes to build an independent foundation for himself. He didn’t know what to expect when he came into the Workforce office but states he was relieved when he was introduced to the WIOA Youth program.
Matthew requested a blue collar career path, which is different from his past part-time job at Albertsons. He completed his Osha 10 to gain work experience at JCE Inc. This construction placement allows Matthew to work with his hands while being outside. He is currently helping with a big contract and is placed with JCE Inc. at Intel. This is a great placement for Matthew as he will be exposed to new opportunities.
The WIOA Youth program was able to help guide Matthews’s career ambitions by financially supporting his OSHA 10 training and exam fee. The worksite also requires him to have tools and a special uniform, where again, WIOA was able to assist. Matthew is hopeful to gain full time employment with JCE Inc. as they have expressed interest and a liking to his strong work ethic. Matthews’s ambition has opened up new doors or himself, and he continues to walk through obstacles with a smile on his face.
‘It’s only after you’ve stepped outside your comfort zone that you begin to change, grow, and transform.”
― Roy T. Bennett
Torrance County
Jizelle, age 22, came to the WIOA Youth Program after being referred by PIMA Medical Institute. She came to seek a possible opportunity to receive funding to help her pay for her Dental Assistant training program at PIMA. Jizelle qualified for the program and was able to receive financial assistance to help her pay for her Dental Assistant program. Jizelle also received Mileage Reimbursement to help her cover some of the cost of her driving from her home to PIMA’s campus in Albuquerque. Jizelle expressed concern that she might not do well in her training program because she had been out of school for several years. Jizelle wanted to achieve her Dental Assistant Certificate and so she went for it. On Friday January 19, 2024, Jizelle took her Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam so that she can become a Certified Dental Assistant. Jizelle successfully passed her DANB. As an added incentive of being a WIOA Youth participant Jizelle, will be reimbursed for the cost of her DANB exam. Next on the horizon for Jizelle is for her to participate in an Externship and then for her to take and pass her licensing exam so that she can become a Licensed Dental Assistant.
Bernalillo County
Ernest is pictured above, with his co-workers, dressed as the black crayon.
Ernest is a high school senior who visited the WCCNM office with his step dad and enrolled in the WIOA Youth Program in September of 2023. He qualified for the program as basic skills deficient and low income. Ernest requested work experience and was placed at the Raymond G. Sanchez Community Center. Ernest worked after school as a Recreation Leader with school-aged children and states he really enjoyed it. He successfully completed 300 hours on December 14, 2023. He also thanked his Youth Development Practitioner for this service stating he learned a lot. Ernest is currently on track to graduate high school this coming June.
Sandoval County
Audrianna is a 23 year old female that came into Workforce Connection with her mother after recently moving to Rio Rancho from San Antonio, Texas. Audrianna knew immediately what she wanted to do with her career and hit the ground running. Audrianna enrolled at Carrington College to gain a certificate in Medical Assisting. Audrianna completed the class with all A’s. She also received several awards while in her training program. Audrianna received Certificate of Academic Excellence, Student of the MOD, and the President’s List award. Audrianna is a prime example of someone taking advantage of the opportunities that the WIOA Youth program offers. Audrianna also completed work experience while in the program and was very well liked at the worksite. Audrianna is currently working at the Better Health Clinic at Albuquerque’s Civic Plaza. She is also attending school to gain her associates in Health Studies. Audrianna has now completed the program as a success and took full advantage of all of its opportunities.
Torrance County
Juan, a 22 year old male, came to the program interested in achieving a Commercial Truck Driver’s License (CDL) and hoping to receive funding to help him pay for him to participate in a training program to help him reach his goal. The WIOA Youth Program collaborated with the Adult WIOA Program so that Juan was able to receive funding to pay for him to attend ABQ Truck Driving School. Juan also received supportive services for transportation, and Incentive Pay for achieving his CDL. On December 13, 2023, Juan successfully completed the Entry Level Driver Program Class A CDL at ABQ Truck Driving School. Juan is now ready to find employment in his chosen career path.
Valencia County
20-year old Isaac enrolled in the WIOA Youth Program as a high school dropout in December of 2020. He was encouraged to enroll in an HSE program prior receiving additional program elements to help support Isaac’s overall employability and success.
Isaac successfully completed BEST Training and Financial Literacy and was placed at Multi Services Construction as General Laborer in January 2021.
During the course of his employment, Isaac was trained by the business owner, Mike Navarro, in the following trades: electrical, plumbing, heating, roofing, concrete, remodeling, flooring and general construction. “Isaac learned the basics from the bottom on up on how to build a home. He was an eager and quick learner. He never complained when asked to do a chore and was always on time for work. I honestly feel that he will someday have his own construction business.” Stated Mr. Navarro.
In February 2022 Isaac Coronado earned his High School Equivalency. This was a proud moment and achievement for this young man. He knew it would open doors for his advancement in his field. During his involvement with WIOA, he earned a credential, incentives, supportive services, and work experience.
Isaac completed 450 hours of work experience in May 2021. He was then retained by his WIOA job site with a pay raise.
Currently, Isaac is a student at Central NM Community College majoring in Computer Science. “I eventually want to be a civil engineer. I may eventually return to construction in a different avenue.” He is also employed part-time by FED X at the Albuquerque International Airport and states, “I personally want to thank the WIOA Youth Program and Youth Development Inc. for guiding me in my life. I needed that support and platform at that time in my life. I will forever be grateful.”
Valencia County
On February 24, 2023 Michael came into the Workforce Connection – Valencia County office. He was seeking assistance with tuition for college. Upon in-take he was unemployed but had some experience working at Wal-Mart and he was Basic Skills Deficient in reading and math. He graduated from Los Lunas High School May 19, 2018. He was enrolled and accepted at PIMA Medical Institute on March 8, 2023 for the Veterinary Assistant Program and began classes on March 22, 2023.
Michael was still attending classes and needed a job. The WIOA Youth Program was able to make it possible for him to get assistance with this. He completed four hours of Basic Employability skills Training and five hours of tutoring, before he started work experience at Bosque Animal Clinic on 10/9/2023. Michael also received assistance with mileage while he attended his classes at PIMA.
Michael continues his work experience participation at Bosque Animal Clinic. Upon graduation the veterinary office plans to hire Michael permanently.
Michael has been very successful in the WIOA Youth Program. When he first started the program he had an idea of what he wanted to do and now he is starting his career. He is ready to make a difference in assisting his community ranchers in Valencia County, with their animals.
Michael is thankful for the help that the WIOA Youth Program has provided him, from assistance with tuition for college, paid work experience, transportation assistance, tutoring, and the guidance that all the Youth Practitioners om the office have provided to him. With the help of the program he will be able to successfully complete his college courses and start his career. Michael states that his confidence has grown.
Bernalillo County
Christopher, 22, joined the WIOA Youth program in January 2023. He qualifed for the program as Basic Skills Deficient and low income and was hoping to gain help paying for classes at Intellitec for Massage Therapy. Christopher was determined to succeed in his goals but needed additional support.
Chrisopher did very well in his classes and earned a 4.0 GPA and earning a measurable skills gain. He completed classes and an externship in November. Also, in November, Christopher took the MBLEX exam and passed on his first attempt. The exam earned him his Massage Therapist License from the State of New Mexico. With his license, he received an offer of emplyment at Massage Envy. Christopher’s start date will be December 4, 2023 as a massage therapist earning $20/hour pulus tips.
Christopher’s current goals are to gain experience as a massage therapist so that he can become self-employed in the future. He is also considering furthering his education to become a chiropractor.
Christopher is doing well and feels the WIOA program helped him overcome his barriers and meet his employment goals.
Valencia County
Danielle is a 20 year old resident of Belen, NM.
Danielle enrolled into WIOA on September 2020 as a 17-year old high school senior. After successfully completing all required activities, she was placed at the Belen Public Library as a Library Assistant.She performed an awesome job and was a ‘’real trooper” as she worked through the pandemic. She completed 300 hours in February 2021.
In May 2021 she graduated from Pecos Connection Academy. Currently she has now been employed with the Valencia County Assessor as a Customer Service Specialist for two years.
Danielle says, “I am working full-time as an appraiser where I passed my first International Association of Assessing Officers Course. My goal is to become a fully certified appraiser.”
Her immediate supervisor Celia Benavidez (County Assessor) had this to say about Danielle, “She is absolutely an amazing worker. Danielle is great with the public who have commented on her professionalism. She always asks if she can assist with ‘special projects’. We are very fortunate to have her as part of our team. She will continue taking appraisal courses through our training process.”
Besides being employed, Danielle is attending CNMCC studying Construction Management and is set to earn her Associates Degree of Applied Science in December 2023.
“My ultimate goal is to work in a large construction company and help with development in New Mexico once I earn my 4-year degree. I learned about construction through my father.” She stated.
“I want to personally thank the WIOA Program for providing me with my first ever job at the Belen Library. There I learned people and communication skills. Also how to be organized, complete projects in a timely manner, and be responsible.” She said.
Outside of work and school, Danielle is in her third-year of coaching elementary basketball. “We have won two championships. I coach 5th and 6th grade students at Dennis Chavez Elementary School”. She said.
Through WIOA Danielle earned work experience, a credential, a training milestone and incentives. We are very proud of her accomplishments and see her as a model for WIOA participants.
Bernalillo County
Jennifer, 19, joined the WIOA program in November 2022. Jennifer had never had a job before and hoped to gain work experience. She qualified for the program due to her disability as well as being Basic Skills Deficient.
Jennifer was determined to succeed in her goals. She was able to complete work experience as an Administrative Assistant at Creative Foods USA, a property management and lending company. While she was completing work experience she learned office skills as well as social media marketing skills. She began to complete office work for a day care owned by the same company. When her work experience was complete, she was offered employment as a floater at the daycare by her worksite supervisor. She is currently working full-time while she works on getting her driver’s license and considers her future career opportuniites. She would like to go back to school possibly as soon as this spring.
Jennifer was able to take the TABE post-test and increase her scores to get a measureable skills gain.
Jennifer continues to do well and feels the WIOA program greatly helped her to overcome her barriers and meet her employment goals. She gained a variety of employment skills and was able to update her resume to reflect those skills and past experiences. She feels hopeful about her future success.
Sandoval County
When Colt graduated from Cibola HS, he had a vision to work in Healthcare Administration. Colt faced barriers that made his dream a challenge. Being low income and BSD while living at home which his parents and siblings wasn’t easy but with his determination and the WIOA Youth program, success was in reach.
Colt was able to enroll into Pima Medical Institute for Healthcare Administration, but he didn’t stop there. Colt was eager to find a company where he could use his abilities to achieve his career goals. With limited work experience Colt needed guidance and support for his mission.
With the help of WIOA Youth, Colt was placed at Roadrunner Healthcare where he worked part-time assisting with the care of elderly patients who reside in the group home. This was a turning point for Colt and his career. After multiple months of hard work and discipline, Colt was able to obtain his certificate in Healthcare Administration and obtain full-time employment with Roadrunner Healthcare.
Colt has now been promoted within the company to a lead position and also purchased his own home. When speaking to Colt he has expressed gratitude and confidence all due to the resources provided to him by WIOA Youth.