Course Correction
Port Huron Career Center
Submitted by Christine Suiter
Katlyn came to Michigan Works! in the spring of 2022. She was supporting her-self by working part-time in the restaurant industry and had been accepted into a medical training program at St. Clair County Community College (SC4). Katlyn was referred to the Young Professionals (YP) program for assistance with tuition and books. Very soon after classes and clinical training began, Katlyn realized that a career in healthcare was not for her. She withdrew from the program and turned to her career development facilitator (CDF) for career advice and guidance.
Katlyn and the CDF got to work reviewing her transcripts, career interests and goals and determined that a career in business would be a better fit. Katlyn re-enrolled into business courses at SC4 and wanted to learn more about a career in the insurance industry. The placement specialist with the YP program arranged for a job shadow and informational interview at a local State Farm agency where
Katlyn was able to gather useful information about the industry. This led to a
paid work experience (PWE) which granted Katlyn the opportunity to earn money
while she gained valuable customer service experience at the agency. At the end
of the PWE, State Farm offered Katlyn a permanent position and the opportunity
to obtain an industry credential.
Katlyn passed the state insurance exam and earned a Resident
Producer license from the State of Michigan. A short time later, she graduated
from SC4 with an associate degree. Katlyn continues to be employed full-time at
State Farm and says, “Michigan Works! helped me in so many ways. They were
always so supportive and helped to get me the real-world experience that would
later turn into my full-time job! I truly wouldn’t be where I am without them
and this program.”
