Eric Kuhlmann, Downey
Workforce Challenge:
When Eric searched to find his local Employment Development Department (EDD), he not only discovered the America’s Job Center of California in Cerritos, but also became aware of available training opportunities. He had 5 years experience working as IT support, but after 6 months of job searching, he was still unemployed. He believed that if he could become a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), he could move up to an IT Project Coordinator somewhere. Eric also felt that not knowing where to look for work and not knowing how to write an effective resumé was holding him back.
Workforce Solution:
The Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) funded the MCSA Microsoft Windows Server Junior Administrator Training at New Horizons and Eric started attending school. He looked for contract work with agencies like Smartsource, Field Nation and Robert Half. Eric also joined SELACO’s Toastmasters Club and stated, “Toastmasters showed me that I was a valuable part of the workforce by giving me the confidence that I needed to speak in front of others.” He used his new skills to help him build professional relationships in the industry.
Workforce Outcome:
Eric dropped out of his training because he was contacted by an employment agency to complete short-term IT contract jobs. After receiving good performance reviews from employers, Eric was offered a 6-month temporary position at the company that eventually hired him. His temp assignment started in September and by January, Eric was working as a Desktop Engineer at a logistics company in Santa Fe Springs providing hardware, software and network support. He stated, “Money is great, my coworkers are great and my boss is great.” Eric advises other job seekers; “You aren’t alone! You won’t be judged! Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can’t open any doors if you don’t know that they are there! There are passionate people who make it their mission to see you successful. It’s why they go to work in the morning.”
