Making a Difference

Algene was referred to us by the AZ@Work Tracker system from January 2024. Algene was enrolled in the Adult and Dislocated worker program with AZ@Work Pinal County at that time. Christine made the initial phone call to Algene, and he was interested in the NFJP program after a short narrative. A meeting was scheduled with Algene and had discussion about his agricultural experience. He was a perfect fit for the National Farmworker Jobs Program. Algene had a couple of barriers that were addressed, which were his felony, minimal work history, as well as being incarcerated for 20 years. We knew that it might impact his career path. Algene initially wanted to work in the computer programming or computer database field, but he knew it would take a college career to do this, so his next career goal was to earn a Commercial Driver’s License. 

Algene took a PICS Assessment, which indicated that he was a Conventional worker and that he likes to work with set procedures, data, and details. Favorable jobs are working with numbers, machines, and computers. Accounting, banking, statistics, office work, and computer applications. His second highest score was in Realistic work. This category indicates that he likes to work with tools, machines, and prefers physical, outdoor, and mechanical work and prefers a structured work environment. Workers with high realistic interests are found in construction and skilled trades, production and manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, hospitality and recreation, food service and natural resources. The realistic option fits in with Algene's training goal of CDL.

We initially started the Occupational Skills Training paperwork for Algene to attend Southwest Truck Driver Training in Tucson but due to delays, Algene was able to obtain funding for the CDL Training from 

AZ@Work. The CDL training program with Phoenix Truck Driving School began on February 19, 2024. During this time, Algene was provided with Gas Cards to get to training, and we kept in communication with AZ@Work as Algene progressed through his training. We helped pay for waterproof boots and jeans when Algene initially started working. Algene’s employer was able to provide him with a promise for advancement into becoming a CDL driver as soon as he finished the training program. Algene attended CDL training during the day and at times slept in his car at his jobsite so he could then work full-time overnight. Algene was determined to finish his CDL Training, he kept this schedule for four weeks until he completed his training on March 15, 2024. Algene’s CDL License was issued April 5, 2024. Algene transferred over to a CDL Driver title with Desert Ready Mix LLC making $30/hour. Algene takes advantage of the overtime hours making time and half wages. Algene recently purchased a new SUV and married his fiancé. Algene has been successful in his training and career path.

National Farmworker Jobs Program Success Story – Rangel

When Rangel first came to the PPEP National Farmworker Jobs Program office in Willcox, AZ, he was facing serious economic challenges and feeling very desperate about his situation. After spending many years working in the fields, the instability of agricultural work eventually left him without steady employment. During his first meeting with the Workforce Development Specialist, Rangel was able to discuss about how difficult life had been lately. As a father of two daughters in Willcox, he knew he needed to make a change.

From the beginning, Rangel was clear about his goal of becoming a Class A CDL truck driver. While we explored other career options together, he was determined to pursue trucking. After reviewing his information and gathering all required documentation, Rangel was enrolled into PPEP National Farmworker Jobs Program as a participant.

Because he was without stable work, Rangel needed strong support while preparing for training. NFJP was able to assist not only cover the cost of his CDL training, but also with lodging assistance, gas, nutrition, utility bills, and other support services. Our goal was to allow him to focus fully on his training without the added stress of financial struggles.

Throughout the process, Rangel remained committed and communicative. He regularly shared updates with his WDS about his progress in school, his nerves before upcoming tests, and his excitement as he moved closer to his goal. With encouragement and guidance from his Workforce Development Specialist, he stayed motivated and pushed through the challenges.

The day finally came when Rangel proudly shared the news that he had earned his Class A CDL license. Soon after, NFJP assisted him with job applications, résumé support, and employer outreach. Just two weeks after completing training, Rangel secured a job as a CDL driver with FusionSite.

Today, Rangel is employed, providing for his family, and building a stable future. He is deeply grateful to NFJP for the life-changing support that helped him achieve his dream. Looking ahead, Rangel is eager to gain experience in the trucking industry and continue growing in his career. 

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