Michael came to West Michigan Works! with aspirations of joining the healthcare industry as a CNA (certified nurse assistant) — a story just like so many others who visit our service centers. Despite significant barriers, his perseverance proved that it is never too late to make a meaningful change.
When Michael first arrived at our Ionia Service Center, he was paired with Career Coach Lauren Dewitt. The two got to know each other as Michael explained his challenges surrounding long-term employment. He had been struggling with work and life for the previous 16 years due to Agoraphobia — which is often caused by anxiety and fear related to leaving home.
It wasn’t until 2018 that Michael began to grow beyond his isolation and prioritize his career. He had spent time as a Mission Point volunteer, doing child and direct care for friends and family. Michael took another big leap when he graduated from Belding Adult Education and started thinking about a career. From there, Michael only needed to see just how far he could go.
Fast-forward to 2025, when, with Lauren’s career coaching, and grant funded support for training and supplies, Michael began taking steps to become a CNA. “Michael was very confident in everything we did and excelled,” Lauren shared.
Michael finalized his CNA training through Flat River Medical in Greenville, and took advantage of career coaching for resume building and interview prep. He is now an employee of Intersect Healthcare, making $17 per hour, and actively works towards his full CNA license.
“I work with some of the most amazing residents. I wake up every day, and I feel a sense of pride like I’ve never felt before. I was able to buy a house, and I am getting ready to go on my first vacation,” Michael told us. “I owe it all to Lauren Dewitt and West Michigan Works! in Ionia.”
Achieve your professional goals and meet with a career coach
Our career coaches are here to help anyone looking to improve their professional life. Regardless of your goals, career field or personal barriers, our career coaches can point you toward training and upskilling opportunities, supplies, resume and interview support and so much more. Take the first step towards achieving your professional goals by setting up a career coach appointment below!
