Gabriel came to Career T.R.A.C.K. (CT) in July of 2024 seeking assistance with gaining
employment and supportive services. He specifically was seeking employment close to his home
due to a transportation barrier. Gabe was motivated and committed to working towards a better
future. During an initial meeting with his Career Advisor, Gabe disclosed that in addition to a
transportation barrier, he also was part of the Foster Care system. CT staff worked with Gabe to
develop a plan to address these challenges and enrolled him in their work experience program as
a member of their youth work crew.
The work crew provided part-time work experience that allowed Gabe to gain valuable
hands-on work skills at community worksites, and develop communication, teamwork, and
problem-solving skills. Gabe also successfully completed an internship with Infinite Stitches, a
small local based custom upholstery business located in Rural Valley, which gave him the
opportunity to develop additional skill sets.
Throughout his time working with CT, Gabe showed that he was reliable and committed
to pursuing his goals. He regularly attended weekly Job Club, which teaches both life skills and
job search skills such as interview techniques, professional conduct, and resume building. Gabe
expressed an interest in applying for a Corrections Officer position, but with his transportation
barriers, he was not able to do so at that time.
Continuing to participate in the CT Youth Program, Gabe earned his National Retail
Foundation Customer Service Credential, passed his driving license exam, and secured reliable
transportation. While assisting as part of the work crew at the Armstrong PA CareerLink® job
fair, Gabe utilized learned networking skills and spoke with staff from the Armstrong County
Jail. He soon after applied for a position with them, interviewed, and secured employment as a
full-time Corrections Officer.
Gabe’s story is one of how skill-building, perseverance, determination and accepting
assistance and support helped him turn uncertainty into a defined path of success with further
possibilities in the future.