When Elijah Cooper of Kinston came to Lenoir Community College (LCC), he knew exactly what he wanted to do, but needed assistance in making his goal a reality. He was working in customer service at a call center at the time. His goal was to enroll in Truck Driver Training and obtain his CDL and start a career in the truck driving industry.

“Elijah and I met at LCC NCWorks Career Center as he was asking about the CDL class,” said Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Counselor Tracey Price said. “After a few questions, I determined he was eligible for assistance through WIOA, a program that assist youth ages 16-24 that qualify for assistance with schooling, training, and finding employment.”

Price said Cooper was highly motivated and eager to complete the necessary required steps for WIOA Youth Program. Truck Driver Training was scheduled to begin in March 2020. “We assisted him with DOT physical and other requirements for the class. He also signed up for National Career Readiness Certification (NCRC),” she said.

Cooper practiced in the lab at LCC and from home online. He took the exam and scored a silver certificate. He was ready for his class, then COVID-19 happened. “While we were all learning how to navigate through this unusual time, I stayed in contact with Elijah and asked for his patience. He was very understanding,” Price said.

That patience paid off. By the end of June 2020, the class had been rescheduled and he was back on track. Price said Cooper was a little intimidated at first. “I explained to him that was completely normal and through WIOA, guidance and counseling are also provided along with tutoring if needed. He quickly grew comfortable in the class and progressed very well. WIOA provided support services as needed to help Elijah be successful in his training.”

Cooper successfully completed his training and obtained his CDL in August 2020. Though WIOA’s incentive program, he also received a $50 Wal-Mart gift card for meeting his goal and attaining a credential.The WIOA Youth Program also aids in job search, creating resumes, and interviewing skills.

In October, Cooper was successful in finding full-time employment at Smithfield Hog Production as a truck driver. He completed his training period there and now works night shift.

“I am so grateful for all the help I have received,” Cooper said. “Through WIOA, I was able to reach my goal and my dream job as a trucker. I recommend LCC and WIOA to anyone that needs a little help reaching their goals too.”

For more information on the WIOA Program, contact Samara Taft, Director of WIOA Title I Programs/ NCWorks Career Center Manager, at sltaft27@lenoircc.edu or (252) 527-6223, ext. 111.