As a child, Tucson and his family fled from a religious sect in the Midwest. As a young adult, he found himself in Pennsylvania due to the insistence of his older brother. He had no more than a third grade education, no driver’s license, and very little work experience. Tucson had no idea what to do moving forward.
He enrolled in the YES to the Future program and worked with his YES to the Future Career Counselor, Timothy Musselman, to develop career goals.
With the help of his CC and the YES program, Tucson soon earned his GED, obtained his driver’s license, secured a job at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville as a Food Ambassador, purchased his first car, and received a promotion at work. Most recently, he obtained a higher level position with a higher wage, increasing by $6.25 as a Sterile Processing Technician.
“Tucson is a great example of what a young adult is capable of when determined to overcome unimaginable barriers,” Tim said. “As with all participants, a Career Counselor can only do so much, and Tucson was focused and determined on making strides to improve his circumstances and achieve his goals.”
Due to his success in the YES to the Future program, Tucson received the Governor’s Achievement Award on October 22. The Governor’s Achievement Awards are presented to outstanding participants in workforce development who have overcome obstacles and achieved success against all odds.
“The Yes program is a team of amazing people who will help you acquire the skills and education you need to pursue your career. Not only can they cover the cost of your testing (GED), they will provide transportation to you,” Tucson said.
