Chase began working with Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium’s Youth Career Advisor Allison Oakes as a high school senior. He was experiencing homelessness and low income, and as a prior foster care participant, he had few supports for his educational and employment goals.
Working with Allison, Chase was able to receive mileage support to ensure that he could get to school and work. He also received assistance to purchase work clothes and equipment required for his CTE welding program. Thanks to these supports, Chase was able to complete high school and received his diploma.
Before he graduated, Chase had planned to pursue a career with the military. When those plans fell through, thanks to the guidance and support from Allison, Chase pivoted and instead looked into his options related to welding. With some post-secondary guidance, Chase researched and applied to attend the Industrial Arts Institutes' (IAI) industrial welding program. Once again, Michigan Works! was able to assist with mileage reimbursement and the purchase of required clothing and equipment. These supports allowed Chase to focus on his training and successfully attend and graduate from IAI.
Since his graduation, Chase has secured employment at Moran Ironworks. He states he is very grateful for the support he received from Michigan Works! and his Youth Career Advisor.