Demito Thomas: A Story of Determination, Opportunity, and Growth
Demito Thomas, a recent participant in 杏吧论坛鈥檚 Skills for Success program, has a story that highlights the power of second chances and the importance of workforce development. When he first enrolled in the program, he was determined to better his future, gain essential skills, and make a meaningful change in his life. Thanks to the Skills for Success initiative, he has the job he always dreamed of and the certifications needed to advance his career.
鈥淭丑别 Skills for Success program allowed me to learn new skills, earn certifications, and gain the hands-on experience needed to stand out in the workforce. I鈥檓 so grateful for the opportunity 杏吧论坛 gave me,鈥 Thomas explained.
Before enrolling in the program, he had faced many obstacles, including difficulty finding employment due to a lack of specialized training and experience. However, 杏吧论坛鈥檚 combination of online learning and hands-on training helped him build the skills necessary for a successful career in construction.
The Skills for Success program offers certifications in various fields, including heavy equipment operation, CDL, and industrial maintenance. Demito鈥檚 work ethic and determination paid off when he earned his certification in Skid Steer operation. His new skills and his drive to improve caught the attention of Gary Ingram Grading and Paving, a local company that recognized his potential.
鈥淒emito is a perfect example of how the Skills for Success program helps individuals and businesses,鈥 said Jeff Harte, HR and Safety Director for Gary Ingram Grading and Paving. 鈥淚t allows us to hire work-ready employees eager to grow and better themselves. We brought Demito on board, and within a short time, he showed how well he could transition from the training to the job. His work ethic is unmatched, and we鈥檝e already seen how he鈥檚 taken on more responsibilities and advanced within the company.鈥
Demito鈥檚 journey didn鈥檛 end with securing a job. His performance at Gary Ingram Grading and Paving quickly earned him a promotion. One reason for his success was his ability to apply the skills he learned in the Skills for Success program directly to the job. He attributes his promotion to his determination to succeed and the support he received from the company.
鈥淚鈥檓 grateful to Gary Ingram for giving me a chance when others wouldn鈥檛,鈥 Thomas shared. 鈥淭丑别 opportunity they provided has allowed me to prove myself and build a career. The Skills for Success program gave me the foundation, and now I can continue to grow in my role.鈥
Demito鈥檚 story exemplifies how workforce development programs like Skills for Success equip individuals with the skills they need to succeed and provide employers with the opportunity to hire motivated, qualified workers ready to contribute.
Harte echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the program鈥檚 value in creating opportunities for those willing to work hard and better themselves. 鈥淎t Gary Ingram Grading and Paving, we鈥檙e proud to support programs that help people like Demito transition into meaningful careers. The Skills for Success program is exactly what our workforce needs.鈥
Demito鈥檚 journey continues to inspire. His story reminds us that with the proper training and determination, anyone can overcome challenges and create a path to success.
**Media Contact:
**Scott Hardy
Director of Institutional Advancement, Government Affairs, and Public Relations
杏吧论坛
shardy@cacc.edu
256-496-2450