Aaron's Success Story

My name is Aaron. I worked as a production press operator for thirty years. Printing newspapers and magazines work had started to become obsolete. Work started getting less and less for the last 10 years to the point where the pay was not enough to survive on. Finally, in 2023 the decision was made from the corporate Quad offices to terminate the Merced facility along with three other plants.

A job fair was set up for employees, and Worknet was there to offer their assistance. As I met with a representative from Worknet, she informed me that because I was living in Madera county I would have to go through the Madera County Workforce.

I went to the Workforce and completed the necessary testing and paperwork. Julian was assigned to me as my career specialist. I was really worried about the process, but Julian assured me that he would do his best. I decided to attend Institute of Technology IOT for Industrial Maintenance Automated Technician. Julian coached me every step of the way and was able to really help me out. It was tough at first, but I really dug in and I had a great time. I have am now a graduate of the program.

I am employed as a Maintenance Technician earning $25.60/hour with benefits in the field that I was studying. I trusted the process. Thank you to Julian who believed in me. Thank you to Workforce for helping me and my future.