Jakia is a 29-year-old female, who is the legal guardian of a 2-year old child. She was referred to the Work Plus+ Workforce Development Services by the Alabama Career Center on December 22, 2021. At that time, she was living in a one-bedroom apartment and living off of savings after leaving her position as a corrections officer. Jakia had the support of her parents and was ready to jump start her career by pursuing CDL certification to create a better life for herself and her nephew, of whom she has custody. Jaskia was enrolled in the 24/7 Dad class and visited the Career Center for career skills courses and resume’ assistance in order to obtain employment. Jakia began her training at Davis CDL Truck Driving School on January 3, 2022 and complete her certification on April 15, 2022. Upon receiving her certification, Jakia worked for Georgia Pacific until she was able to obtain a position as a CDL driver. On July 24, 2022, Jakia began working for Swift Transportation where she is presently employed.

Jakia states that she is loving the trucking industry, and she feels like everything is falling into place in her life. With an increase in income, Jakia is able to do more things with her nephew when she is home they like going shopping and visiting amusement parks. Jakia states, “if it had not been for Work Plus+ assistance at this moment of transition in my life, I would not have made it this far reaching my career goals.”