Daniel's Story

Client: Daniel
Program: Apprentice Program
Department: Business Services

Daniel is a client who enrolled in our 2023 Manufacturing Pre-Apprentice Program. Daniel, at the time was couch surfing and living out of his vehicle. Daniel entered into his 1^st cohort of the Pre-Apprenticeship program with no experience in Manufacturing Maintenance and he put his head down and grew quickly to the point sites were complimenting him to me about his work ethic and desire to learn. As the year went on and he changed cohorts he became more and more comfortable with what he was doing. What sticks in my mind about Daniel, is he made such an impression in his 1^st cohort at Sonoco, that they did not forget about him 9 months later. So, I encouraged him to apply for an opening as a Machine Operator at Sonoco, which he did and was instantly “system” turned down. I advised him not to take no for answer and to reach out to his supervisor at Sonoco and let him know he applied. Days later he had an interview at Sonoco and was offered a position as a Machine Operator and starting at $28.00 per hour. As I remained in contact with Daniel and Employer, I received nothing but positive news from both of them. Daniel has since completed his probationary period with Sonoco and has received more than one raise and is over $30 per hour now and has full medical and dental. His goal is to continue to climb the ladder at Sonoco and just be happy! I am so proud to play a small part in Daniel’s successes and I know he will be ok, and that’s what most important.

-Sean, Workforce Specialist
Business Services