SUCCESS STORIES
Cedric Hardeman – Eastpointe, MI.
After a year and a half of unemployment, Cedric has successfully re-entered the workforce. He completed the Fast Track program and is now working as an Electrical Apprentice with IBEW Local 17 at the Jackson County Solar Farm. To support his family, Cedric is earning a livable wage of $50 per hour, along with a $100 per diem.
Cedric shared the quote “Once I achieved my CDL – A credentialing it turned my potential into something I could finally see with my own eyes.”
Robert Henderson, Detroit, MI
Robert was referred to Fast Track after completing his pre – apprenticeship with Emerging Industries Training Institute to further build on his established skilled set. His long-term goal is to become a journey-level electrician with an average salary is $67.050, plus benefits. He is currently working under a master electrician, as an electrical apprentice where he earns approximately $500 a day.
Robert shared the quote “I discovered the difference between work that pays and work that fulfills.”
Bradley Klockziem – Saint Johns, MI.
Bradley began his Fast Track journey by completing his CDL – A Training and is now working as a Groundman making $32.00 per hour for Dan's Excavating. Bradley also has recently started the ALBAT Traffic Signal Apprenticeship Program for Local 17.
Bradley shared the quote “This program didn’t just prepare me for a job; it prepared me for a career path.”
Jessica Freeman – Pontiac, MI
Jessica worked in the traffic division at Universal Contracting but needed a CDL A to advance within the company and qualify for an apprenticeship with IBEW Local 17. She enrolled in Fast Track to get her CDL A and enhance her knowledge of career pathways in the Electrical industry. Upon completion of the program, Jessica secured a position as a Groundman at Universal Contracting Services, resulting in an increase in her hourly wage from $23.07 to $31.93.
Recently, Jessica became IBEW Local 17's top candidate and started the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training (ALBAT) Lineman Apprenticeship Program.
Jessica shared, “My experience with the entire Fast Track Program was fantastic. It was smooth sailing, and the instructors at Classic Driving School were exceptional.”
Samuel Bunkly, Eastpointe, MI.
Samuel Bunkley was referred to Fast Track by Local 17 for assistance in obtaining his CDL-A. His long-term goal is to become an outside lineman, and a CDL-A will help him achieve that goal. Since completing the Fast Track, he has obtained employment as a Flagger with Universal Contracting, earning $23.00 an hour.
Dwight Hudson - Detroit, MI
Dwight Hudson wanted to pursue apprenticeship opportunities with IBEW Local 17, but needed a CDL-A. He was referred to FAST Track for the training and credentialing he needed to pursue his career plan to become an outside lineman. He is currently working at Universal Contracting as a Flagger, earning $23 per hour.
Dwight shared the quote “Never give up and always take your time”
Marshante Montgomery – Holly, MI
Participating in Fast Track gave Marshante the skills and confidence to pursue advanced career opportunities in skilled trades and his company. He obtained his CDL-A and is on track to become an outside lineman. He is working at Universal Contracting earning $23 per hour.
Marshante shared the quote “No matter what path you take, let kindness drive you in the direction”
Davontae Smith – Troy, MI
After completing his pre – apprenticeship program with Access for All, Davontae started the Fast Track Program working in downtown Rochester Hills, MI on the Christmas lights installation project for Dan’s Excavating. The Fast Track Program exposed him to both the technical side and the office side of the electrical industry. Davontae was hired by Dan's Excavating as an office assistant earning $21 per hour.
Davontae shared the quote “I learned more about myself in this program than I ever expected, especially what I’m truly capable of.”
Joseph Alexander – Lansing, MI
Joseph worked on a major dorm revitalization project at Michigan State University as a construction laborer with Centennial Electrical contractor. Joseph has currently applied to the Lansing Electrical Apprenticeship program with Local 665 to become a journey-level electrician.
Joseph shared the quote “The Fast Track program didn’t make things easier; it made me stronger”
Joshua Hull – Inkster, MI
Joshua transformed his career by resigning from his job as a fueler at the airport and joining the Fast Track Program, where he earned his CDL-A. During training, Joshua applied directly for jobs and apprenticeships with Local 17.
Building on his training and proactive job search, Joshua recently secured an exciting Tree Trimmer position with Local 17 contractor Davey Tree Expert Company, earning $21.00 per hour and quickly accumulating significant overtime, demonstrating his initiative and ability to advance his career.
Joshua shared the quote “The program opened doors to new opportunities, strengthened my work ethic, and helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
Juwan Jasper – Farmington Hills, MI
As a Fast Track participant, Juwan gained knowledge of construction trades pathways and the benefits of registered apprenticeships. He then chose to use the skills and insight he gained to transition into a lucrative manufacturing opportunity, becoming a Ford Motor Company Truck Driver by earning his CDL-A.
Juwan reflects on his experience, stating, “The program has given me the technical skills, confidence, and hands-on experience I need to advance my career.”
Marlon Canty – Detroit, MI
Marlon had been in the same position with his employer for years, with little chance of advancement. Balancing a program with his already hectic schedule felt like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. However, participation in the Fast Track program provided the training and resources he needed to obtain his CDL-A, which led him to a new role as a truck driver. This advancement not only increased his wages but also strengthened his candidacy for his long-term goal of entering the Substation Technician apprenticeship at Local 17.
Marlon shared, “This program taught me more than shifting gears, it instilled patience, focus, and a sense of responsibility.”
Nicholas Mariner – Clinton Township, MI
Nicholas, an IBEW Local 17 referral employed by Universal Traffic Contracting, successfully obtained his Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) through the Fast Track program. This achievement qualified him for advancement to the position of Project Liaison Assistant with a corresponding wage increase to $32/hour.
Nicholas shared the quote, “A CDL does not just put you on the road, it puts you in control of your future.”
