It is with great pleasure the PA CareerLink Butler County nominate Kiley Critchlow for the STEP Award. Kiley’s journey reflects exceptional determination, resilience, and a strong commitment to achieving long-term self-sufficiency. Her rapid progress and outstanding accomplishments make her a truly deserving candidate for this recognition. Please pay attention to this very short timeline, with very big results.
Kiley first connected with the PA CareerLink’s Title I program, Career TRACK in September 2025 and officially enrolled on October 31, 2025. She actively participated in WRAP sessions, engaged in job searching, and secured employment with the PA CareerLink as a youth worker in the Career Resource Center on December 11, 2025. At the end of the day on December 11th, all we had to say was WOW! She is going to go places! We need to keep her! What a great first impression!!
Kiley asked questions, wasn’t shying away from suggestions and by January 5, 2026, Kiley was also working with EARN and of course the case manager with EARN states “Kiley’s progress has been remarkable!” Since enrolling in January, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment to achieving her goals. At the time of enrollment, she was participating in the Career TRACK Youth Paid Work Experience Program and exploring career options in administrative or service-oriented roles. Through consistent engagement with PA CareerLink® services, she built valuable skills and developed a clear path forward.
Kiley achieved several significant milestones within just three months. On March 1, 2026, she secured permanent housing for herself and her daughter without subsidies, reflecting her determination to establish stability and independence. By March 30, 2026, she obtained full-time employment as a Career Advisor at the Career TRACK office—a role that aligns with her long-term career goals and provides meaningful professional growth. By June 1, 2026, she was successfully managing a full caseload—an impressive milestone in such a short timeframe. She has already made contact with the PA CareerLink for another youth worker to replace her at the PA CareerLink and the youth worker already started!
In addition, Kiley addressed transportation barriers by obtaining assistance to have her vehicle inspected, ensuring reliable access to work and supporting her ongoing progress. Kiley’s success is a testament to her resilience, her commitment to personal and professional development, and her ability to fully utilize the resources available to her through EARN, PA CareerLink®, and community partnerships. She not only met but exceeded expectations, emerging as a model of what can be achieved through dedication and persistence. Kiley’s journey serves as an inspiration to others participating in workforce development programs, demonstrating that with determination and consistent effort, long-term stability and self-sufficiency are attainable.
Kiley’s accomplishments truly embody the spirit and purpose of this recognition. Strong work ethic and dedication led to her being hired by Career TRACK on March 30, 2026.