2011 WIA Youth Program Participant of the Year – Michael Miller of Wisconsin Rapids.

Like many other young people, Miller was desperately trying to figure out his path in life.
After graduating from high school, he just wanted to be self-supportive and receive a consistent paycheck. He worked several temporary jobs, but was unsuccessful at landing a job that would lead to anything permanent. To enhance Miller’s work skills, he was referred to the WIA Youth Program provided by CESA 5. Tania Halbersma, CESA 5’s Youth Case Manager at the Wisconsin Rapids Job Center, helped Miller with job search, resume development, and interviewing skills before placing him into a WIA Paid Work Experience site at a local department store.
While enhancing his skills on the worksite, CESA 5 also provided Miller with financial literacy services to help him develop the skills needed for future self-sufficiency. Miller experienced many employment barriers. However, Miller and Halbersma worked through those barriers together.
He started out as a very quiet individual who soon began to develop self-confidence and a voice of what he wanted for the future. Just prior to the end of his WIA Paid Work Experience program, Miller’s employer approached him to suggest he apply for a permanent, part-time position. Miller eagerly applied, received an interview, and was hired.
A year later, Miller is still there. His hours have increased to nearly full-time, and he is now receiving health benefits.
Recently, Miller was able to purchase his first car. Miller told Halbersma that it was a combination of his positive attitude, hard work, and the encouraging relationships he developed while participating in the WIA program that led to his permanent position within the company.
While accepting his award Miller announced how appreciative he was of the help he received from WIA and wants others to be aware of how the program can help them to.