Home » Success Stories » Shifting Gears to a High-Wage Career

Joshua Brayman, an Army veteran and dislocated worker, faced uncertainty in his career path. Determined to find stable employment, he visited the SEMCA Michigan Works! Monroe American Job Center, where he enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Dislocated Worker (WIOA DW) program. His goal was to explore job opportunities and potential training assistance to secure a long-term career.

In April 2024, Joshua began his journey with SEMCA Michigan Works! and received funding for CDL-A training through Trainco, Inc. at Monroe County Community College. With dedication and hard work, he successfully completed the training in June and shortly after obtained his CDL-A state driver’s license credential.

His career coach played a crucial role in supporting his transition, providing job leads and job search assistance. Joshua secured employment with Roehl Transportation as an over-the-road truck driver, earning $0.40 per mile. Though this opportunity provided him with essential driving experience, it came with financial challenges, as he was making approximately $450 per week. Joshua committed to Roehl for a minimum of 42,000 miles before exploring other opportunities.

With perseverance and the encouragement of his career coach, Joshua stayed focused on his career goals. After fulfilling his commitment to Roehl, he leveraged his experience to secure a full-time truck driving position with XPO, where he now earns $27.40 per hour. This opportunity has provided him and his family with financial stability and a fulfilling career path.

Joshua’s story proves that your first job doesn’t have to be the final destination—it can be a stepping stone to something greater.

“Through the support and encouragement from SEMCA Michigan Works!, I was able to stay on track and use my experience to advance my career. I’m proud to be in a high-wage, high-demand career that provides stability for my family.”

Thanks to SEMCA Michigan Works!, Joshua has successfully transitioned into a rewarding career, demonstrating that hard work and determination can lead to long-term success.

If you or someone you know is a veteran or facing similar challenges, get in touch—we’re here to help. Visit SEMCAMiWorks.org/thewaytowork
or call 800.285.9675.