Akiva first came to PA CareerLink® Lehigh Valley facing significant challenges. At the time, he was staying at the Allentown Rescue Mission after experiencing homelessness. A staff member at the Mission recognized his determination and potential and referred him to PA CareerLink® for assistance. Despite difficult circumstances and a major transportation barrier, Akiva remained focused on improving his future, even walking four miles round trip to the office, demonstrating his commitment to reaching his goals.

Akiva had a clear vision for his future. Prior to becoming homeless, he had attended welding school but was unable to complete the program due to his housing situation. Although life had interrupted his plans, he never gave up on his dream of becoming a welder. Before even enrolling in services, Akiva had researched training opportunities and identified the welding program at Lehigh Career & Technical Institute (LCTI) as the perfect fit. Knowing an upcoming class was scheduled to begin soon, he was determined to secure a spot.

Akiva enrolled in the WIOA Out-of-School Youth (OSY) program in December 2025 and immediately got to work. Within just one month, he completed employability skills workshops, developed a professional resume, and successfully completed the CASAS assessment, achieving qualifying scores for training on his first attempt. He also completed all required training application steps on time, ensuring there would be no delays in pursuing his goal.

His hard work was rewarded when he began welding training at LCTI in mid-January 2026. As he progressed through the program, his Career Counselor recognized that a Driver’s License could significantly improve his employment prospects. With many employers requiring a license and reliable transportation, earning his license would increase his marketability after training. Without missing a beat, Akiva obtained his learner’s permit, and was referred to a local driving school for lessons.

Not everything went according to plan. Facility issues at the driving school delayed the start of lessons throughout February 2026. Rather than becoming discouraged, Akiva remained patient and focused on his training. He was provided with bus passes to ensure he could continue attending classes without interruption. When driving lessons finally began in March 2026, he approached them with the same determination he had shown throughout his journey.

By the end of April 2026, Akiva successfully completed the welding program with an impressive 3.6 GPA. Shortly thereafter, he celebrated another major milestone by passing his road test and obtaining his driver’s license in early May 2026.

With training completed and a license in hand, Akiva wasted no time pursuing employment. He quickly lined up several interviews and confidently showcased the skills he had worked so hard to develop. His perseverance and dedication ultimately paid off when he secured a full-time position as a Welder with L & M Fabrication, earning $18.00 per hour. Since starting his career, Akiva has continued to build financial stability and recently reached another milestone by saving enough money to purchase his very first vehicle.

Akiva’s story is an example that circumstances do not define a person’s future. Through determination, resilience, and a willingness to seize every opportunity, he transformed obstacles into stepping stones toward success. Today, he is building not only structures but also a brighter future for himself.