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Denise Chasey’s story is an interesting one. After losing her long-term job, she was unsure of what to do next and anxious about finding new employment. While visiting the SEMCA Michigan Works! Monroe American Job Center (AJC), she discussed losing her position at work after 30 years. Stacey M. mentioned an upcoming Sterile Processing Technician training through a partnership between Monroe County Community College (MCCC) and ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital. Denise was given a flyer, and though interesting, it was something she had never heard of.

Stacey connected Denise with Carolina Rios, a WIOA Case Manager, and the rest is history. Carolina guided Denise through every step, from enrolling at MCCC, obtaining study tools (including essential flashcards to help her learn the surgical tools and instruments she would be using), and encouraging her to pursue and take the certification exam. Carolina also assisted with her job search by reviewing her resume and sending job leads, ultimately helping Denise secure an entry-level position as a sterile processing technician, earning $17.20 per hour.

While it took some time to get the nerve to take her certification exam, Denise passed it in March 2024. Now, she’s a Certified Sterile Processing Technician and a full-time employee at Beaumont/Corewell Health – Dearborn. Thanks to her certification, she received a pay raise and earns $18.01 an hour.

Denise shares, “I went from worrying about losing my job to finding a new career. This was all possible with the help of everyone at the SEMCA Michigan Works! Monroe American Job Center. Thank you!”