Success Story: Albert

“Nothing’s easy. There’s always [hardships]—but if you stay diligent, it pays off,” explains Albert, who came to YWCA St. Paul after getting laid off in 2012. Rising above the discouragement and frustration of no longer having an income to support his family, he decided to steer his life back on track with help from the Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training Program.

During his time in the program, Albert did more than perfect his skills behind the wheel. He also focused on becoming work-ready by improving his résumé, participating in mock interviews and building his literacy on the computer. Six months later, he received his CDL and landed a job with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).

While plowing snow and paving roads, Albert is excited to have not only steady income, but also benefits like paid time off, insurance coverage and a retirement plan. He recently celebrated his two-year anniversary working with MnDOT and is grateful to have the opportunity to provide a better life for his family.