In May 2024, Jason took a step toward transforming his future by enrolling in the WIOA Out-of-School Youth (OSY) program offered in partnership with Lehigh Valley Workforce Development Board and PA CareerLink® that would pave the way for a rewarding career in the trucking industry and provide a better life for his son.
The path forward was filled with growth and learning, beginning with a series of immersive workshops that kicked off in May 2024. These workshops were not just an introduction—they were a deep dive into the essential skills and knowledge needed for success in the field such as resume and cover letter writing, interview techniques, job retention, networking, and financial literacy.
In July 2024, Jason took his next significant step by starting a Paid Work Experience (PWE) at CeCe J’s Snacks. Completing his PWE in September 2024, he not only gained practical, hands-on experience but also strengthened his work ethic and understanding of real-world logistics. During this time, Jason demonstrated his potential by excelling in the CASAS exam, earning impressive scores that qualified him for CDL-A training.
With newfound momentum, Jason received an employer letter, solidifying his commitment to a future in the trucking industry. In October 2024, he began his CDL-A training at Berks Technical Institute (BTI), to refine his skills and gain the expertise needed to drive professionally. The training was intense and challenging, but Jason’s unwavering dedication carried him through. By November 2024, Jason completed the program—prepared, confident, and ready for the road ahead.
The next milestone came in December 2024, when Jason proudly received his CDL-A license. This was not just a license—it was the culmination of months of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. It symbolized the realization of a long-held dream and the opening of new doors for their career.
Jason’s journey did not stop there. In February 2025, Jason stepped into the driver’s seat of his future by landing employment and starting a new role as a Heavy Tractor Trailer Truck Driver with Western Express. This was the moment Jason had worked tirelessly for, and it marked the beginning of an exciting and fulfilling career, not only for himself but also for his family. Jason is grateful for the opportunity and support that was given to him by the PA CareerLink® staff that lead him to success.
Mark your calendars to find out more about our PA CareerLink® Services! Visit the job huts during PA CareerLink® Awareness Days from August 25 to September 15 to see how we help you with resumes, career coaching, learning about local hiring opportunities, and available career training options. Find our job huts in Easton on August 25, Bethlehem on September 8, and Allentown on September 15.
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Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities/Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Programs at PA CareerLink® Lehigh Valley are funded in whole or in part by federal funds. Detailed information can be found at www.lvwib.org/stevens-amendment. Equal Opportunity Officer: EqualOpportunity@careerlinklv.org or 610-841-8332 TTY Line 610-437-0741. More information on adaptive equipment and Equal Opportunity resources can be found at www.lvwib.org/equal-opportunity-and-adaptive-equipment. ... See MoreSee Less
Looking to boost your team's skills? SkillUP™ Lehigh Valley offers free training and employee assessment screenings! With over 6,000 courses and 130 certifications, we help companies like yours create custom course clusters to develop your workforce. Learn more: lvwib.org/training-service-providers/skillup/
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Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities/Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Programs at PA CareerLink® Lehigh Valley are funded in whole or in part by federal funds. Detailed information can be found at www.lvwib.org/stevens-amendment. Equal Opportunity Officer: EqualOpportunity@careerlinklv.org or 610-841-8332 TTY Line 610-437-0741. More information on adaptive equipment and Equal Opportunity resources can be found at www.lvwib.org/equal-opportunity-and-adaptive-equipment. ... See MoreSee Less
🚀 Youth Spotlight: J’Livette’s Journey of Workforce Success! 🌟
Meet J’Livette, a recent high school graduate with big dreams of becoming a psychologist. Through the WIOA In-School Youth program, offered by the Lehigh Valley Workforce Development Board in partnership with PA CareerLink®, she gained real-world experience, career-readiness skills, and the confidence to succeed.
After completing employability training and a paid work experience at the Allentown Public Library, J’Livette landed a retail job and is preparing to start her next chapter at Moravian University this fall! 🎓💼
Her journey is just one example of how workforce programs empower local youth to grow, lead, and achieve. 💪 ... See MoreSee Less