Success Stories

Eric was dislocated from Shopko in April 2019. He connected with the WorkSmart Network to learn about the services available to him through the DWG Retail Grant, including resume development and mileage assistance. He was interested in continuing his education… Continue Reading From Shopko to Project Management – Eric’s Success Story

Peter lost his job in late 2017 when Brennan’s Market closed all five locations. He connected with the WorkSmart Network through Rapid Response for assistance exploring careers outside the retail industry. At first Peter was unsure of his next step.… Continue Reading From Retail to Paralegal – Peter’s Success Story

Sheila lost her job in 2018 but previously partnered with the WorkSmart Network so she knew of the services available to her. She connected with WorkSmart and enrolled in her local WIOA program to explore careers and continue her education.… Continue Reading Sheila’s Success Story

Osamah relcoated to the United States in 2014 from Baghdad, Iraq where, among other jobs, he provided linguistic services to the U.S. Army. Osamah earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science in Iraq, but upon relocation to Madison, was only… Continue Reading Osamah’s Success Story

Corey connected with the WorkSmart Network when he lost his job as a delivery driver after 9 years with the company. Having not applied for a job in almost a decade, Corey enrolled in WIOA programming for help with career… Continue Reading From Unemployed to Aspire Award: Corey’s Success Story

Ted was released from incarceration in August of 2018. Upon release, Windows to Work helped him with additional supports, like transportation to search for jobs and obtaining work clothing. He immediately found a job making $12.45 per hour in a… Continue Reading Meet Ted

Jeremy was released from incarceration in September of 2018. Before his release, Windows to Work was able to help him reinstate his driver’s license and provide him with new release clothes and work clothes. Jeremy is a certified industrial electrician… Continue Reading Meet Jeremy

Andora never thought she’d lose her job. As a single mom she needed to provide for her family. She knew that more education in a growing industry would help her and her family in the long-run. “I needed to get… Continue Reading From Dislocation to Aspire Awardee: Andora’s Success Story

Dylan connected with the WorkSmart Network because he was having a difficult time finding a career. He enrolled in WIOA programming for help with career exploration, his resume, tips for his job search and supportive services. The Network also referred… Continue Reading A Fast-Tracked Future

Six months before he was dislocated, Ben connected with the WorkSmart Network through a Rapid Response information session. He explored the skills training and career services available to him through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and its dislocated… Continue Reading Career Exploration Helped WIOA Participant Connect to Unexpected Career

Not only did sue attend the first ever Computer Essentials Academy through the WorkSmart Network, but she was also one of the driving forces behind its creation. Sue was working in a factory when she became dislocated in 2016. She… Continue Reading How A WorkSmart Network Participant Helped Create An Academy

Kendall had been in and out of prison for the last 10 years. Determined to do something different and stay out of prison this time, he enrolled in the Windows to Work program. Through the Department of Corrections-supported program, Kendall… Continue Reading Windows to Work Helps Participant Stay Out Of Prison

Robert joined Windows to Work before he was released from his 15-year prison sentence. Although he entered the program with a positive attitude, he was nervous about his release. He knew there would be barriers to overcome including finding employment… Continue Reading Overcoming Obstacles With Windows to Work

Gabi connected with the WorkSmart Network to explore educational opportunities available to her through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The Network referred her to a CNA program and helped her strengthen her soft skills to prepare her for… Continue Reading Gabi’s Success Story

Kevin was dislocated from his job, he attended the Rapid Response sessions provided to the dislocated workers to hear about the services available to him through the WorkSmart Network. Kevin decided to meet one-on-one with the WorkSmart staff to learn… Continue Reading Kevin’s Road to Success

Rufus knew he needed more education if he wanted a higher paying job.

Vince never thought he would be able to go to college. But during his junior year of high school, he heard about Middle College.

Bobbi was laid off in 2013 as a teacher at Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools as a result of budgetary cuts. She connected to WorkSmart to explore education opportunities.