Shantel’s Story

My journey to CWJC is different from most of my class. I was in the Air Force almost 14 years and worked for Verizon Wireless almost 10 years. I had a car accident and life changed. Due to neck and back injuries, I was in and out of physical/chiropractic therapy. Feb 2016, I did not re-enlist in the Air Force, because I couldn’t medically pass PT.

My doctor took me out of work at Verizon due to my physical limitations, and I had to file for short term disability. Unfortunately, my medical claim was declined, and I was terminated from Verizon Sept 2016.

I applied for other positions but wasn’t able to find employment. The first 6 months I was still financially secure, so I wasn’t worried. By Aug 2017 I was down to my last $280 and was very weary. At that point, I knew this was a God thing when I couldn’t even get a part time job. I prayed and asked God to help me.

I went to an interview where I met Carla Johnson, another CWJC student. She stated, “I just applied for CWJC, and I think you would be a great candidate.” My friend Tamayra and I both went to First Baptist and got an application. We submitted them and were both accepted to the Heritage Campus.

When I met with Susan Elder the Site Coordinator there for the interview process, I wasn’t sure what the outcome would be. However, the more we talked, a peace overcame me, and I realized this was a God thing. CWJC was the answer to my prayers! I told Susan September was my faith month. I literally had no idea how I would pay for gas to get to class each week or pay any monthly bills. But every week a way was made. I found that I could, through God’s grace, pay for gas, food, and other bills.
Each week I came to class and was a sponge just soaking up all I could. I was amazed because I thought I was proficient in certain areas but found myself learning more and more each week. Every teacher had a passion to assist us on our journey and taught more than skills for computer, finances, career planning, and resume building. Susan, the teachers, and other volunteers gave me strength, encouraged me, and prayed with me. During this time Susan and Elaine Dickson made calls and provided information to assist me in making sure bills were paid and essential needs were met. I can never thank CWJC enough for everything that they did to assist me on my Faith walk.

I used the tools to create a resume and was called for an interview. On the last day of class, I nailed the interview. Two days later, I was offered the career God had prepared for me as a (Government Contractor) Logistics System Program Support Analyst. I’m forever Grateful! CWJC provided me with so many tools and resources that will not just carry me through this season, but the rest of my life. I look forward to coming back and ministering to other students and serving in any capacity. We gained a wealth of knowledge and I can’t wait to share it with others. I love you all so much.