Moving from EARN to Employee of the Month

Robert was enrolled into the Private Industry Council's Employment, Advancement and Retention Network (EARN) program in June of 2011. Upon entering the program, Robert was a little discouraged with his job search. He had been a machinist for many years, however, due to some back injuries; he was no longer able to perform the job he had always known.

He advanced through the EARN program with ease, with much discussion of what Robert wanted to do next with his employment status. He took several assessments provided by the Private Industry Council including the System for Assessment and Group Evaluation (SAGE) to see which career path he wanted to pursue. Ultimately Robert always knew his interest lay in the field of labor and working with people. He always wanted to be in the helping profession, but did not know how to transfer his skills into that labor market.

While Robert was participating in the paid work experience activity of EARN, it was observed by staff that Robert loved to do janitorial type work. This allowed him to interact with people and use the skills that he knew. The Program Development Specialist, Tom Combetti, decided to talk to Robert about pursuing this type of employment. Tom Combetti contacted LOWES for an open job order for a part-time janitor. Robert interviewed for the position as Facility Services Associate - and got it!

Within one month of employment Robert was given a full-time position. By the end of three months of employment, he was given a raise, recognized as EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH and given his very own parking space!

For more information about the EARN program or to determine if you are eligible to enroll, contact your local County Assistance Office.