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Larrica Carter was working at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital as an Environmental Services Technician, earning $15 per hour and receiving SNAP benefits. Determined to advance her career, she sought help from the SEMCA Michigan Works! Monroe American Job Center (AJC) to fund her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Monroe County Community College (MCCC). However, MCCC canceled the winter semester class, delaying her plans until the fall. Unwilling to wait more than six months, Larrica turned to her Career Coach for assistance.

Rather than delay her education, Larrica enrolled in a CNA program with Heart to Heart in Ypsilanti. With support from SEMCA Michigan Works!, she received a laptop to complete the online components of her training. The WIOA Adult program funded her class book, two sets of scrubs, and her state certification exam fee.

Larrica began her CNA training in March 2023. With continuous encouragement from her Career Coach at the SEMCA Michigan Works! Monroe AJC, she completed her training and passed the State of Michigan CNA Licensing exam. She is now employed as a CNA at a local nursing home, earning $16 per hour. Larrica’s Career Coach continues to provide job leads for higher-wage positions, ensuring her career progression and personal growth.

“My journey started rougher than I planned, but thanks to the support from the staff at SEMCA Michigan Works!, I didn’t give up. My case manager encouraged me throughout my training and continues to send me leads for even better positions. I’m excited about my future in nursing!” Larrica shared.

If you’re eager to start a nursing career, don’t wait. SEMCA Michigan Works! can help you find programs to begin training immediately. Larrica’s success demonstrates that with perseverance and support, you can achieve career success.