June 13, 2024
Today is a “sigh of relief” day for Wyatt Suchecki and his fellow Grand Rapids Community College Job Training program graduates. This is the day when all of their hard work pays off, and they receive the certificates for which they have worked so hard.
“I wanted to improve my career opportunities, so I started looking on Indeed for job openings. Every manufacturing job seemed to require some kind of automation skill that I didn’t have,” Suchecki said. “So I quit my job as a manufacturing supervisor to pursue a CNC certificate at GRCC. I earned my certificate in just four months. On top of that, I also secured a great new job before I graduated! That is a huge sigh of relief for both me and my wife.”
GRCC has collaborated with area employers and industry experts to design seven different job training programs in fields that offer good earning potential and have a shortage of workers. These include automotive technician, computer support technician, construction electrical, machinist/CNC, medical assistant, residential construction and welding/fabrication technician. Each program is approximately 16 weeks long, and students work almost full-time on their skills.
“The CNC certification, such as Wyatt earned, conveys job readiness to employers,” said Mina Stallworth, interim job developer for GRCC’s Workforce Training. “Students who complete this program can demonstrate knowledge of safety regulations and significant hands-on experience with the equipment. Employers know they are hiring people who are workforce ready.”
The training accelerates a student’s career trajectory when they enter the workforce. It provides them with a competitive edge and may also allow them to start at a higher pay grade because they can demonstrate proficiency.
“West Michigan is in the midst of the Industrial Revolution 2.0, with technology and automation being critical skills. Students with these skills can secure a great spot in a thriving industry,” Stallworth said. “Manufacturing offers stability and competitive wages. A job training certificate prepares students for upward mobility.”
Earning the certificate is an achievement in and of itself. However, the real payoff comes when a student secures a great job as a result. Suchecki is a perfect example of how the Job Training program at GRCC empowers students to succeed.
“Quitting my job to earn this certificate was a big stress for both me and my wife,” Suchecki said. “During the program, my professor recommended that I talk to Thompson Innovative Glass. They were opening a new Grand Rapids location and needed qualified employees to help build the business.”
Suchecki thought the opportunity sounded interesting so he worked with Stallworth to apply.
“I had visited Thompson with a program manager and learned about their objectives. Thompson needed an employee with leadership skills who could help set up systems and train others,” Stallworth said. “Wyatt’s professor recommended him and he was a natural fit.”
As an interim job developer, Stallworth offers complete job search support for students like Suchecki.
“My goal is for students to feel confident so they can have effective conversations and advocate for themselves,” Stallworth said. “Employers are eager to acquire and retain skilled talent in the trades. A confident, well-poised candidate will have an advantage in the job market.”
Suchecki said Stallworth’s coaching was nothing short of amazing.
“I loved everything about Mina,” he said. “Every time I talked to her, she was friendly and smiling. She helped me understand what Thompson expected and how to negotiate.”
Suchecki was able to secure an offer that included profit sharing and a bonus structure.
“My wife and I are expecting our first baby at the end of July,” he said. “It means everything to me and our family that I have a new job I love, with plenty of opportunities for growth and leadership.”
Learn more about GRCC’s job training programs.
This story was reported by Julie Hordyk.