Here's an example that'll warm your heart.
(And if you read the entire post, you'll see you and other community members had a hand it this, too!)
Recent LHS graduate Hunter Grulke worked at Mick's Truck & Auto during his senior year via the WSESD Work Based Learning Transition Program. (WBL).
Right after his graduation following the second semester last March, Hunter's work ethic, skill, and friendly manner helped him get hired on full-time at Mick's.
Josh Casey, the manager at Mick's Truck and Auto in Ludington, was impressed by both Hunter and the Work Based Learning Transition Program. "This is a great program for students," he said. " Back when I was in school, this type of program wasn't even available. It gives students like Hunter a chance to learn work skills sooner in life."
Hunter was appreciative of the supportive partnership Mick's and the ESD's WBL program provided. "I think I had a fantastic opportunity to work toward automotive employment because Mick's Auto were really willing to help me learn what I needed to build a career."
https://westsideautogroup.com/micks-truck-and-auto/
Sarah Massie was the liaison for Hunter at Ludington High School who helped him earn needed credits for graduation by attending 1/2 day at school and 1/2 day at his work-placement at Mick's.
"Hunter has been interested in automotive mechanics since his sophomore year," said Sarah. "I'm glad Hunter was able to pursue his passion at a great auto shop like Mick's. They were a perfect fit for Hunter. To help Hunter grow a variety of skills, Mick's also helped him with the paperwork to earn the necessary credentials."
Alayne Speltz is the ESD's Work Experience Coordinator. She monitored Hunter's progress reports and saw first-hand how he was moving toward making his dream to work in the automotive field a reality.
"Hunter's success story is really a community success story," said Alayne. "Everyone in Mason County is a part of this story from the supportive tax paying residents to the Ludington Schools, our regional taxpayers who support the ESD's special education programs, and all the local businesses that partner with our ESD WBL Transition team and leaders to create work-based opportunities for students. Lives are impacted in so many positive ways."
The encouragement and training provided by Ludington High School, the ESD's WBL program, and Mick's Truck & Auto have inspired a healthy confidence in Hunter.
Not only is he excited to start his career in the automotive field, he's also eager to pay it forward and mentor another high school student someday if he can.
"Absolutely," Hunter said. "I had help. I want to help others, too!"