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RALPH WALKER GRADUATE OF THE YEAR Robert Nix already had a vision of what he wanted to be when he joined Goodwill. His plan to become independent rode on the wheels of a forklift. The opportunity would come for Robert to realize his dreams, but the path that led him there was not easy. Robert enrolled in Goodwill’s Retail Training program designed specifically for youth ages 18-21, where he began learning the skills that would help him achieve his goals. Robert became acquainted the ins and out of the retail business while receiving training and education that would help him become successful in future job opportunities. He studied hard to improve his math skills and achieve other educational goals, and took a big step toward realizing his goals when he completed Goodwill’s forklift safety certification course. The work came easy, but Robert’s shyness made communication one of his great challenges. He trained himself to smile and make eye contact when helping customers and concentrated on providing exceptional service to those he came in contact with. As his confidence grew, so did Robert’s ability to portray his personality. In January 2007, Robert was hired as an employee with Gray Interplant Corporation working onsite at Caterpillar. In a short time, he established a reputation of being dependable and versatile and continued to open up and build relationships with his colleagues. And Robert continued to pursue independence. With his earnings from his new job, Robert purchased a vehicle through Goodwill’s “Wheels to Work” program so that he could be responsible for his own transportation. Today, Robert is exactly where he wanted to be all along. He is employed, independent, certified…and has his eyes on the path ahead of him as he sits behind the wheel of a forklift. |
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