In July 2023, Yoskar enrolled in the WIOA In-School Youth (ISY) work-based learning program at PA CareerLink® Lehigh Valley. Yoskar, who faced a language barrier and came from a low-income background, discovered the program through PA CareerLink® Lehigh Valley’s outreach at the Moravian University Black & Latino College Readiness Program commencement ceremony earlier that summer.

During his initial meeting with his career advisor, Yoskar shared his long-term goal of pursuing a career in theater arts. Alongside his academic courses at William Allen High School, he participated in the culinary program at the Lehigh Career and Technical Institute (LCTI), blending his artistic passion with practical skills. By this point, Yoskar had already accumulated valuable work experience. He had served as a food and beverage associate at Dorney Park and a server at Culinary Experts, a restaurant in the Allentown Farmer’s Market.

Yoskar completed the Employability Skills curriculum, which covered resume development, strategies for behavioral interviews, professional networking, and workplace etiquette. As part of the program, he participated in a mock interview, crafted a resume with his career advisor, and discussed potential work placements that would complement his interests.

Yoskar’s career advisor and the work-based training developer collaborated to find a placement for Paid Work Experience that matched Yoskar’s creative interests and fit his schedule. After evaluating several options, they identified Sterner’s Stems, a local floral shop, as the ideal environment for Yoskar to build his workforce skills. Yoskar interviewed promptly and secured a position as a customer service associate.

On January 12, 2024, Yoskar began his role at Sterner’s Stems. He thrived in the customer-facing role, especially interacting with event guests and channeling his creativity.

By February 3, 2024, Yoskar completed his work experience. He continued working with his career advisor to explore additional career pathways, including healthcare roles. Yoskar requested his advisor’s assistance in finding a job that aligned with a co-op placement and shared that he had been struggling to find one that suited his interests and was close to home.

After researching potential opportunities and consulting with recruiters, his advisor recommended applying for a culinary position at Phoebe Ministries, an independent living facility.

Yoskar applied, completed the interview process, and subsequently landed employment as a culinary technician earning $15 per hour, beginning his role on September 3, 2024.

Now approaching graduation from William Allen High School in June 2025, Yoskar is focused on his next goal—attending a four-year university, where he where he hopes to further expand his skills and opportunities.