By Thomas Buol
I find it difficult to succinctly express the full blessing that the Dislocated Worker program provided me. I had no idea that this program existed, but now I can't stop telling people about it.
It started for me when I was laid off from a medical device manufacturer, where I had been working in customer service for several years. Thankfully, the company brought in Minnesota Job Partners and I met with my career counselor, Kate. I try not to over-dramatize events in my life, but that meeting changed my life.
I had been thinking about going back to school for many years, but finances and time were the main obstacles. I can still distinctly recall that first meeting with Kate. She encouraged me to enter the program, which would pay for my schooling. She patiently answered all my questions on numerous occasions. She instilled in me confidence that I could complete my bachelor’s degree in Information Technology at Metro State University. The next two years seemed to go by in a blink. I pushed myself to learn as much as I could and to get the most out of my schooling. I was aware that this wasn't my money, so I didn't want to let anyone down. Throughout that whole process, Kate stayed on as my counselor. She went above and beyond to help me. After I graduated, Kate recommended IT jobs and I ended up getting one of them. I am now employed at a company using the exact skills I learned through my schooling. On top of that, I am now making more money than I ever have. Whenever I think about this opportunity, I am so grateful. A true gift from God. If anyone is hesitant to enroll, I encourage them to ask questions. You may even ask yourself, what is the catch? I know I did. The truth is, there isn't one.