While finding work is hard, it’s even harder when you’ve been incarcerated. Job seekers everywhere struggle with the process of finding work—whether that be with their resume, interviewing, or just finding the right positions—but the experience becomes significantly more difficult with a criminal record.
In June of 2021, Erin Hart was released from prison and facing the reality of returning to work. While incarcerated, she became aware of WorkSource through resource fairs and got connected to Business Navigator Susan Milke who would help her with her biggest hurdle.
Ready and willing to work, Erin already had a resume—she was just struggling to find a company that could look past her history.
“I just needed help finding employers that hired convicted felons,” said Erin.
Part of Susan Milke’s position on our Business Services team is forming relationships with local businesses and understanding their needs and hiring processes. When Erin came to Susan looking for a lead on a background-friendly employer, Pacific Die Casting came up immediately.
Erin ended up getting a job at their manufacturing plant in record time, but her story doesn’t end there.
In the fall, she put in her two weeks’ notice to continue going to school, where she earned her associate’s in business.
“After graduating, I reached back out to Pacific Die Casting to see if there was anything available, and she just so happened to have the position that I’m in now, which is the Inside Sales Manager.”
Erin Hart has been at her new job for three years now. But it was that initial experience and relationship building that allowed her to capitalize on her new degree.
I asked Erin what advice she would give to others who’ve been in her position.
“My advice would be not to give up. You know you’re going to hear no’s and you just have to keep going and give your best.”
Congratulations to Erin on leveraging her resources and network to not only find a job, but to also advance in her career!
Whether you have prior justice involvement, have been laid off, or are just looking for a new path, WorkSource can help all job seekers. Contact your local center to meet with an Employment Specialist today!
WorkSource is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Washington Relay Service 711.
This program receives support and funding from a U.S. Department of Labor grant(s) provided through Workforce Southwest Washington. Read more about WSW federal funding at WSW Funding Disclosures: https://workforcesw.org/federal-funding-disclosure
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