Fernando's Success Story | Ontario, OR
Fernando Lopez entered Oregon Human Development Corporation (OHDC) program, under the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act (WIOA 167) on May 8th, 2017. As a single father Fernando faced difficulties obtaining a better employment, he had been working at the onion storage shed for long labor hours with only minimum wage salary. He also had worked at the Department of interior as an onion inspector few months out of the year. He was accustomed to labor work and he did not see a future ahead of him if he stayed in the same employment. He wanted to increase his financial lifestyle by obtaining a full-time year-round employment opportunity where he would be home each night with his daughter and not have to work long hours for little pay.
His goal when he first started with the WIOA 167 program was to obtain his Commercial Driver License (CDL) as a truck driver because of the employment opportunities in our area. He researched the type of work he wanted to do and spoke with Sage Professional Truck Driving Service in Caldwell, Idaho. He was able to get enrolled into Sage Professional in May 11th 2017, and while he attended classes, he was supported by OHDC, with transportation stipends and his training hours were paid. We knew Fernando would overcome all his barriers and soon become a truck driver. |
We encouraged him to try his best and believe he could do it. It was a matter of one week when he had already obtain his permit. He exceled and was able to pass his training and get his CDL. OHDC, provided Fernando with a Job Readiness class, where he was given resume building skills, interview techniques, and the importance of seeking employment.
Fernando, soon received great news he was called for an interview at Campo and Poole Distributing LLC, a company that delivers petroleum and diesel to local companies. He was offered a job starting at $18.75 per hour and working locally, which meant he would be home every night. He cherish the moments he is able to spend time with his daughter. He learned there’s better opportunities out there and that farmworkers do not have to feel stuck or on a rut”. |