Welcome to our Impact Stories page. Here, you’ll find real stories from real people whose lives have been transformed through workforce programs.
At the California Workforce Development Board, we believe every Californian deserves access to meaningful, high-quality jobs. Through partnerships with local workforce boards, industry leaders, community colleges, training providers, and community-based organizations, we’re helping open doors for workers who have been excluded from economic opportunity.
“It’s less about metrics alone, and more about the ripple effect of positive change you can help create in a community,” said Denise.
Read Denise's story
“I have rebuilt my life, and I am committed to giving back through the very systems that helped me survive and thrive.”
Read Joanna's story
“To see the light come on in other people’s eyes as they got the program… that made me want to hang in there even more.”
Read Jerry's story
“They helped me with bus passes, gas cards, even rides to class. But more than that, they believed in me with no one else did.”
Read Leeshun's story
“It gives you all the certifications you need. It puts you in a place that takes you out of where you were before and into where you need to go.”
Read Trenika's story
“It taught me that no matter how many problems you face, you have to stay strong and make sure you get everything done to be successful.”
Read Orion's story
“Be patient. Don’t give up. Even if it doesn’t work out right away, just keep going. It’ll come together,” said Adrianna.
Read Adrianna's story
“They didn’t just prepare me for a job, they prepared me for life,” said Sydney Randall. “Now I feel peace in my success.”
Read Sydney's story
“After I was hired, PWT helped pay for the tools I needed and paid my union dues so I could get started without falling behind in my bills,” said Alexis.
Read Alexis's story
“Without BRIC, I wouldn’t have had this amazing opportunity with Warner Bros. Production Animation,” said Linda.
Read Linda's story
“Everyone should take this training to overcome challenges we’re facing in this country,” said Corey Lewis.
Read Corey's story
“I feel as though I’ve found my purpose through the Interventional Radiologist apprenticeship program,” said Andrea.
Read Andrea's story
“Being in the community and working together with others is how we’ll bring about change,” said Terrance White.
Read Terrance's story
“I turned pain into power. To all women, single mothers, and fellow Native Americans, you can make it,” said Jasmin.
Read Jasmin's story
Before starting the Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program, Gabby Manzo often worked overtime.
Read Gabby's story
“I received funding for tuition, books, and other essential expenses. I am incredibly grateful for this help—it made my education possible!”
Read Irina's story
“I was in a slump, and this program helped me get my confidence back, taught me to believe in myself again, and gave me a second chance.”
Read Michael's story
Applying her knowledge has earned her a promotion and the ability to give back as a mentor at TEC’s Youth Leadership Academy.
Read Gabrielle's story
“The Ed Fund helped me keep up with my living costs by helping me cover mandatory program requirements,” said Alexander.
Read Alexander's story
Rudy’s 14 years of experience brings awareness of WERC’s training opportunities directly to the communities.
Read Rudy's story
A personalized support system helped her overcome challenges and make informed decisions about her professional development.
Read Julie's story
“As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I want to equip patients with essential skills for self-care and chronic disease management,” said Maria.
Read Maria's story
Acceptance into the Dental Hygienist program at Taft College allowed Mahalia’s dreams to materialize.
Read Mahalia's story
“The education required for teachers is not easy, but knowing I had no financial stress made it much less scary,” said Angelica.
Read Angelica's story