KRA operates the American Job Center at Malcolm X College’s West Campus, as well as the Chatham Education Workforce Center (EWC) on the city’s South Side, for the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership.
LaShundria Watson was facing uncertainty about the trajectory of her career path. Even with a BS degree in Business & Administration Management from Chicago State University, she was struggling to secure suitable employment.
Determined to find a stable and fulfilling career to support herself and her 6-year-old son, Ms. Watson found the guidance and support she needed at the Chatham EWC.
Guided by members of the Career Services Team, she refined her resume, honed her interviewing skills to be more confident in presenting her experience and qualifications, and targeted her job-search on a career in Human Resources, her true passion.
KRA/Chicago is pleased to report that Ms. Watson secured a position as a Financial Aid Representative with her alma mater! Her success is a testament to the power of perseverance and professional support, and her journey is inspiring for those striving to overcome obstacles and achieve their career goals.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ms. Watson stated, “I give a lot of credit to the Chatham Education & Workforce Center for helping make this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity a reality.”
Nazareth Wilson Jr. was at a crossroads—considering either employment or education to advance his career goals— when he visited the West Campus. However, during Orientation for WIOA-eligible Dislocated Workers, it was discovered that the Chatham EWC was closer to home, saving him considerable travel time.
Passionate about helping those struggling with addiction, Mr. Wilson knew he needed educational credentialing to advance in his chosen field, and despite 7+ years’ experience, he would continue to face this barrier without at least an Associate’s degree.
Determined to overcome this challenge, in January 2025, Mr. Wilson enrolled in the Associate in Applied Science degree program at Kennedy–King College, taking a significant step toward advancing his career and fulfilling his calling. His subject knowledge and empathic communication skills were recognized early in the program, with a professor offering him an addiction-support position, connecting those in need of care with supportive programs and services, while completing his 2-year AAS coursework.
Mr. Wilson’s resilience and perseverance, combined with the power of education, has put him on the best career path for transforming his passion into a profession in which he can continue to positively impact the lives of those in need of supportive substance-use services.
KRA congratulates both Ms. Watson and Mr. Wilson for taking charge of their own career advancement and thanks them for recognizing that KRA/Chicago was the best workforce-services program for meeting their professional-development needs.