Career Change Success

Every day is busy in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit at Bristol Regional Medical Center (Wellmont Health Systems). However, no day is too busy for People Incorporated dislocated worker client Travis R., who is thankful for a work schedule as busy as his. “I am very blessed with the help I have received through the dislocated worker program. I am working a job that I love and I work with some of the most amazing people.”

After receiving a permanent layoff notice from Alcoa Forge Products in December 2009, Travis was somewhat deprived of hope because he was faced with the challenge of leaving a company where he had devoted his time and talents for 12 years. Working as a Process Specialist and providing oversight of production line processes, Travis was not prepared for the career change that would be forthcoming. Not knowing what to do, Travis sought the assistance of the dislocated worker program after learning about the program at the Bristol Virginia Workforce Center. Through assessments, planning, guidance, and coaching provided by dislocated worker staff and funding provided by the Trade Act Program, Travis was able to complete the nursing program at Virginia Highlands Community College. Travis earned his Associate of Applied Science Degree in nursing and within three days of graduation, Travis obtained a position at Bristol Regional Medical Center and is now employed as a Registered Nurse earning $17.75 per hour.

With a 1.9% growth rate and 2,528 projected openings in the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Area for registered nurses, Travis now has the peace of mind that he will always have a job. “It is a great feeling to achieve a goal that may not have been possible without the aid of the dislocated worker program, and for that I will always be grateful.”