As a single mother of two young children, Jasmine was determined to create a future that offered stability, purpose, and opportunity. Although she held an associate degree in Forensic Science, she was unable to find employment in that field. Instead, she balanced multiple part-time jobs, working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) while also working at a childcare facility to help reduce childcare expenses. The juggling act was demanding, but Jasmine remained focused on her long-term goal: building a sustainable career in healthcare that would allow her to support her family and grow professionally.
Jasmine knew she had the drive to succeed, but she also understood that advancing her career would require education, credentials, and support. That determination led her to Career EXCELerate Wisconsin, where her motivation quickly stood out. Recognizing her readiness to move forward, staff from the Goodwill ACCELerate program referred Jasmine to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program—an essential turning point in her journey.
WIOA Support That Removes Barriers
When Jasmine connected with our WIOA program, she gained access to the comprehensive support she needed to move ahead with confidence. Like many working parents pursuing education, Jasmine faced financial and logistical challenges that could have easily stalled her progress. She needed uniforms and a stethoscope for work, assistance with transportation and childcare, and help covering testing and training-related expenses.
Through WIOA, those barriers were addressed head-on. The program provided critical financial support that allowed Jasmine to focus on her education and career goals rather than worrying about how to afford the next step. WIOA also supported her pursuit of nursing credentials, including preparation for her LPN and RN state board exams—key milestones on her path to becoming a registered nurse.
Jasmine’s WIOA Career Services Specialist, Meri, describes her as both determined and optimistic. “She has a great head on her shoulders,” Meri says. “She has a positive attitude and mentality.” That partnership—combining Jasmine’s commitment with WIOA’s resources—became the foundation for her success.
Advancing in Healthcare Through Education
With WIOA support in place, Jasmine continued building her skills and experience. Through Career EXCELerate, she earned her CNA license at Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC), gaining both classroom instruction and hands-on experience at a local rehabilitation and long-term care facility. That experience solidified her passion for healthcare and confirmed her desire to continue advancing in the nursing field.
“FVTC is designed to shape you into a powerhouse,” Jasmine says. “The instructors are extremely supportive and push you to reach your full potential. You’re equipped with the skills you need to succeed in your career.”
Backed by WIOA’s ongoing assistance, Jasmine enrolled in the nursing program and is now working toward her Registered Nursing associate degree. With approximately 38 credits remaining, she is on track to graduate next December—closer than ever to the career she envisioned.
Leadership, Recognition, and Lasting Impact
In March, Jasmine’s hard work and leadership were recognized on a statewide level when she was named the 2025 Wisconsin Technical College System Ambassador for FVTC. This prestigious honor is awarded to just one student at each of Wisconsin’s 16 technical colleges. As an ambassador, Jasmine serves as a voice for technical education, sharing her story to inspire others to pursue training and career opportunities.
Her selection reflects the outcomes WIOA strives to achieve: academic success, career readiness, and leadership development. Recently featured in a statewide video spotlight, Jasmine’s journey highlights the powerful impact of WIOA-supported training—expanding access to education, strengthening the workforce, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Today, Jasmine is not only building a rewarding future in nursing, but also inspiring others to believe in what’s possible with determination, support, and the right opportunities.
