Siaosi

Siaosi was first referred to Goodwill Hawaii through his work furlough program. With support from Goodwill’s employment counselors, he attended workshops to help with anger and stress management, professional etiquette, interview coaching, job search skills and strategy, and resume building. He eventuallylanded a job with HBR Builders earning a steady paycheck. But Siaosi was determined to do more with his life and earn a higher income. He was introduced to Goodwill Hawaii’s Career Readiness and Education Development (CRED) program. After meeting with a CRED employment counselor, Siaosi set his sights on paving his way toward a career in commercial driving. Siaosi’s first task was to earn his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Goodwill employment counselors assisted him to enroll, pay for and complete his CDL training. He passed his road test and got his CDL in September 2019. Additionally, his counselor assisted him with obtaining his Transportation Worker Identification (TWIC) card, unlocking access to job opportunities working with maritime facilities and vessels on the harbor. This particular identification requires a full security background check and opens up other avenues of employment. Following his successful CDL and TWIC credentialing, Siaosi applied for and received offers from two local CDL employers and selected a position with Nan Inc. earning $20/hour a nearly 50% increase in pay from his previous job. Siaosi said: “I paid my dues and am ready to come out and do what I’m supposed to do, which is to live a good life, work hard, and do the right things, like helping others, staying healthy, and eating well.” Keep up the great work Siaosi!