Home » Success Stories » Certified to Succeed

At 24, Jaylah Simpson was unemployed and living with her sister in Wayne. She had previously worked in a lab but struggled with inconsistent hours, making it difficult to stay financially stable. Determined to secure a better future, she set her sights on a career in healthcare—specifically as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

A friend told Jaylah about SEMCA Michigan Works! Wayne American Job Center and the WIOA Youth program, and in August 2024, she walked in eager for a fresh start. She met with Career Coach Kelly, who helped her explore her career goals. While Jaylah was excited about becoming a CNA, she was introduced her to an even greater opportunity—training as a Patient Care Technician (PCT). This program would allow her to earn three certifications: CNA, EKG, and Phlebotomy, expanding her career options.

After researching job prospects through Pure Michigan Talent Connect, Jaylah saw the potential in the PCT program. She enrolled at Heart-to-Heart Training School in September 2024. She also received support services like transportation and professional clothing to ensure she was prepared for success.

Jaylah excelled in her training, maintaining top grades while keeping in close contact with her Career Coach for guidance. By November, she had completed her coursework, passed her exams, and earned her certifications. Just days later, she officially received her license.

Her hard work quickly paid off. Thanks to connections she made during training, Jaylah received multiple job offers from hospitals. After careful consideration, she accepted a full-time position at Corewell Health in Wayne, earning $16.52/hr, with overtime opportunities and a promotion expected after 90 days. She started her new role in December 2024, marking the beginning of a promising new path forward.

Reflecting on her journey, Jaylah shared, “With the support from SEMCA Michigan Works!, I learned that putting in the effort to accomplish goals leads to success and opens doors to long-term career opportunities.”

Jaylah didn’t just gain certifications—she gained the confidence, support, and skills needed to build a stable and rewarding career.