When Justin enrolled at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) to pursue his Associate Degree in Justice and Community Advocacy, he knew the road ahead would demand sacrifice, focus, and resilience. As a parent and a student, Justin was balancing more than most. Yet through every challenge, he continued to move forward proving what dedication and the right support system can achieve.
For Justin, that support came in part from Forward Service Corporation’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program. Designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment, WIOA assists participants with everything from tuition and book costs to transportation and childcare. It’s a lifeline for students who have the talent and drive to reach their goals but need financial stability to stay on track.
With support from WIOA, Justin has been able to focus on his education without constantly worrying about whether he could afford it. For him, this meant the freedom to pour energy into his coursework—maintaining a 3.5 GPA—and successfully completing his state certification in Fundamentals of Emergency Dispatch. These credentials are stepping stones toward his long-term dream: working in probation and parole, where he hopes to help individuals rebuild their lives and strengthen their communities.
But Justin’s impact doesn’t end in the classroom. For more than three and a half years, he has volunteered with The Fallen Outdoors – Team Wisconsin, helping veterans and active-duty service members reconnect with nature through free outdoor adventures.
Recently, Justin helped launch the Adventure Pump initiative at Krist Food Mart in Menominee, Michigan—an effort that will raise funds for The Fallen Outdoors through December 2025. His involvement speaks to his belief in giving back, even while juggling school and family life.
As Justin continues his educational and career journey, he represents the best of what FSC’s WIOA program makes possible. Through determination, community service, and the support of programs designed to remove barriers, he is not only building a brighter future for himself but also creating ripples of impact across the lives of others.
Justin’s story is a reminder that with the right resources—and a lot of heart—dreams don’t just stay dreams. They become careers, service, and meaningful change.
About the WIOA Program
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program, provided by Forward Service Corporation, provides funding and career planning to help individuals gain the education and skills needed for in-demand jobs. From tuition assistance to career guidance, WIOA supports students like Justin in reaching their professional dreams and achieving long-term stability.
To learn more or find out if you’re eligible, visit fsc-corp.org/WIOA.
WIOA in this area made possible by the Bay Area Workforce Development Board.
