Morehouse B&CS Center Provides Career Jump-Start for Local Residents

BASTROP – Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC) Executive Director Ava Dejoie visited the Morehouse Business & Career Solutions Center (BCSC) in Bastrop, as part of her recent trip to the Monroe and Shreveport areas.

Dejoie and other LWC staff members met with Terri Mitchell, Director of Workforce Development Board 83, as well as local officials, community leaders and three area residents who have benefited from LWC programs and services.

Donald Sneed, a 55-year-old truck driver, received his Commercial Drivers’ License training with the help of Angela Marshall, Career Coordinator for the BCSC. Sneed is now working as a truck driver and credits Marshall with helping him get to the next level in his career.

“I couldn’t have done it without Ms. Angela,” he said. “I was fortunate that they were able to reach out to me. I am really blessed. They even checked in with me to see how I was adjusting.” Sneed continued, “This is an excellent program. I think it would be great if more people would take advantage of these programs.”

Dejoie commended Sneed on his accomplishments, saying, “We are so happy for you.”

“I’m happy for myself,” Sneed replied.

Another resident who shared his experiences with Dejoie was Gerald Houston, a youth participant who received training by also working with Marshall. After earning his HiSET, he went through two successful Work Experience positions and is now attending Louisiana Delta Community College.

“I’m working on my second semester at welders’ school. I love it,” Houston said.

Dejoie praised Houston for his commitment to his craft. “You’ve got a whole slew of people here pulling for you,” she said.