Josie Strives For More

Perserverence is an important component of success, and Josie is no stranger to working hard through difficult times. 

Before coming to Goodwill-Easters Seals Minnesota (GESMN), Josie was working numerous jobs, including at hotels and retail stores; her highest wage was $12/hour. She worked nearly 80 hours every week to help support her five children. 

Josie was aware of GESMN’s programs through her job counselor, but kept putting it off because she was nervous to take several weeks off work to complete job training.

Josie was furloughed during the pandemic, but it didn’t stop her from finding new ways to work. She received her CNA license from Minneapolis Community and Technical College and decided it was the perfect time to join GESMN’s business professional pathways program.

One week after graduating, she landed a job at Medica where she is currently employed and is now just one semester away from becoming a certified medical receptionist.

“From the first day of class, Josie did a fantastic job. You could see the motivation and drive that she had and still carries forward after graduation,” said Nicole Krutzfeldt, Josie’s business professional pathways instructor.

Josie says, “This job has it all!” She can work and learn at the same time, and the work is different every day. Josie is considering going back to school to get her associate’s degree so she can apply for other positions within Medica.

“My advice to others is to just take the class; it is so worth it,” said Josie. “You will gain so much more than a job. This program set me up for better pay and a better job so I can take care of myself and my family.”

If you or someone you know is interested in career growth or wants to expand their technology skills, check our the business professional pathways program.

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