With support from Clackamas Workforce Partnership’s reentry programs, Willie earned his CDL, completed an associate degree, and secured full-time employment as a commercial driver.

Returning to the community after incarceration was a major transition for Willie. But with a dedicated case manager and a clear goal of building a stable career, he began taking important steps toward a new future.

His case manager provided consistent guidance and encouragement, helping Willie stay focused even when challenges arose.

One of those challenges was funding for commercial driver’s license (CDL) training. When other community resources were no longer available, Willie worried he might have to put his career plans on hold.

His case manager kept working to find a solution.

Through workforce reentry support, Willie received full funding for his CDL training and tuition, allowing him to earn his commercial driver’s license and pursue a career in transportation.

Building Skills and Stability

The support extended beyond CDL training. Willie also received a laptop to help with his education, and he successfully completed his associate degree during the summer term.

Soon after, he secured full-time employment as a commercial driver with Northern Refrigerated Transportation, Inc., earning $26 per hour with health and dental insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan. The program also helped provide items he needed to begin his new job.

All of this progress came within Willie’s first four months of reentry.

“Coming home from prison, earning my CDL gave me an important foundation for rebuilding my life and pursuing meaningful employment,” Willie shared.

For Willie, the support meant more than financial assistance. Having someone who believed in his potential helped him stay motivated through uncertainty and continue working toward his goals.

His experience demonstrates how career training, educational resources, and dedicated case management can help people returning from incarceration establish a strong foundation for long-term success.

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