Sometimes, all it takes is the right opportunity—and the right people in your corner—to change everything.
Rolando Nieto learned from a family friend about SEEN (Supporting Employment Efforts Now) and its partnership with the On Track Truck Driving School LLC. As a SEEN partner, the school provides hands-on training that helps participants earn their commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Although Rolando was working full-time, he was looking for a way to increase his earning potential. SEEN gave him that opportunity.
SEEN is one of United Way of Tarrant County’s Workforce Development programs, designed to help ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) individuals transition into high-wage, high-demand careers. The program offers specialized training and certification in fields such as trucking, an industry with strong job growth and competitive wages.
Rolando was part of SEEN’s first-ever cohort and graduated with his CDL in January of this year. The program gave him the skills and credentials he needed to pursue a trucking career, while On Track’s team provided personalized support that made a lasting impact.
“What sets me apart from other schools is my students can reach out to me,” said Kenya Mobley, owner of On Track Truck Driving School LLC. “We all need to be present for our students and show them that they are SEEN.”
Just before completing his training, Rolando and his girlfriend discovered they were expecting their first child, a baby boy. Being in the program at that moment, he said, “was a blessing.” It gave him direction, momentum and a clear goal during big life changes.
He said that one of the most valuable parts of the program was the financial literacy training provided through UWTC’s partnership with Truist. Participants, including Rolando, receive a $250 incentive for completing the classes.
“I never had any financial classes before, so it helped me out a lot,” Rolando shared. “I learned about APR, savings accounts—stuff I didn’t know much about before.”
Balancing a full-time job and training wasn’t easy, but SEEN’s flexible structure made it possible. The program accommodated his schedule and offered him support to stay on track.
“I think it was a great training,” he said. “I feel confident, and I am ready for the road.”
Now, Rolando is living in Florida and getting started on his career path in trucking. He’s focused on the future for himself and the family he’s building, and he’s excited to become a new father in the coming weeks.
“I appreciate [SEEN] for the help and the opportunities for me and my family. I am definitely going to take the initiative for this career path,” he said.
If you or someone you know is ready for a new path, just like Rolando, learn more at www.unitedwaytarrant.org/workforce-development.