My Story: Tyrone Coleman

I was out of work for almost two years. I was despondent because my house was on the verge of repossession and I had depleted all of my 401(K) to pay my house bill. My unemployment was exhausted, so I was desperately turning over every stone I could to find a job. Even though I was a college graduate, my skill set was outdated.

Someone told me about Goodwill of Central Arizona. After visiting the neighborhood workforce development career center, I was quickly evaluated and tested, and I received funding to gather a number of certifications required to update my skill set to the new standards. With Goodwill’s help, I was provided classes and necessary training to take and successfully pass the industrial certification in computer, CompTIA , A+ and Network+ ,  and I became a Microsoft Certified Professional.

After completing the course and exam, I decided to further my education by enrolling in Cisco entry-level courses. While taking advantage of the services offered by Goodwill , my new skill set qualified me for a position at Freescale Semiconductor.

That time allowed me to volunteer at Goodwill in the IT department, where I was given a bit of real-world experience, and I was able to give a little bit back. Goodwill liked me so much, they hired me part time, and then elevated me to a full-time status, where I’m increasing my knowledge in information technology. I received another Microsoft certification in Windows 7 just this month.

I am thankful for the community program at Goodwill and the services they offered me. Goodwill was able to keep my foundation and family strong.

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