Calvin Gill
- Dislocated Worker
Calvin Gill faced a challenging situation when he was laid off from his position as a scanner operator in April 2020. Seeking a new direction, Calvin turned to SEMCA Michigan Works! Southgate American Job Center (AJC) for assistance in pursuing a career with growth potential. After researching various fields, he chose to explore welding and was enrolled in the WIOA Dislocated Worker (DW) program. Despite having no prior experience in welding, Calvin was determined to succeed with the right training and aimed for a career ladder opportunity.
Calvin began his Welding 101 training at Welding Concepts Training, Inc. in Detroit in May 2021. According to his instructor, Richard, Calvin quickly excelled, demonstrating a natural talent for welding. That June, Calvin successfully completed his training and received a certificate of completion.
Wasting no time, Calvin began his job search and was hired by Endurance Solutions in Detroit in July 2021, as a welder. His starting wage was $24 per hour, full benefits, and a $5,000 signing bonus. Recognizing his potential, Bill Thomas, Calvin’s supervisor at Endurance Solutions, provided additional training in truck and trailer repair. Calvin excelled in this role and eventually accepted a new position as a Diesel Mechanic/Welder at Trimac Transportation in Taylor, earning $24.50 per hour.
Calvin’s career continued to advance, and in February 2024, he took on a managerial role at Monroe Auto and Tires in Dearborn, earning $65,000 per year plus commission.
Calvin is now thriving in his new career and proud of his significant accomplishments. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed gratitude for the support he received from SEMCA Michigan Works! Southgate AJC during a challenging time during the COVID-19 pandemic. His current earnings are proof that hard work and determination really do pay off in the end.
Calvin shared his experience:
“I was referred to Rita, the Southgate AJC WIOA Case Manager, by a friend who had found success through her assistance. At that time, I was struggling to find sustainable employment and hoped to change my life. Initially interested in CDL A training, I discovered I was not eligible. Rita helped me explore other career options, and I chose welding. With her guidance, I enrolled in the welding program, and SEMCA Michigan Works! covered my tuition. Completing the program led to my first job at Endurance Solutions, which was the starting point of my career path. Now, I’m a Manager at Monroe Auto and Tire, earning a salary of $65,000 plus commission. Thank you, Rita, and SEMCA Michigan Works! for providing the tools and training through the WIOA program. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to transform their life!”