The MicroTrain Blog

Robin had been working in academia as a consultant for over two years when funding for her program was reduced and she was laid off. She did what anyone would do; she searched job boards and applied for jobs but wasn’t getting very much interest from employers. Robin had spent years as a business analyst and had managed several projects. She had some impressive skills but no certifications.

At a job fair, Ralph Logan from MicroTrain invited Robin to attend a WIA seminar. Robin learned that she might qualify for help and training. Robin registered for services at Prairie State College and kept searching for jobs and attending all of her required workshops.

In April, Robin got the call that changed her life. She had been accepted into the MicroTrain fast-track program. Robin took Six Sigma, ITIL, PMP and MS Project all in one month. “It was grueling, stressful at times, but also rewarding,” Robin said.

A month later, Chicago TechWorks referred Robin’s resume to SilverPoint Technology Staffing as a part of their job placement assistance services. She aced the interview and she was hired on June 24th as a Senior Business Analyst where she is now managing multiple projects.

“MicroTrain opened my eyes to the importance of certifications. It’s the perfect place for adult learners; they have instructors who actually work in the field, they give you practice tests and all the resources you need to land the job,” Robin said. “Taking training to enhance your skills also shows initiative to employers and I was able to use all the terminology and speak intelligently during my interviews.”

When asked how her training is helping her at her new job, Robin said, “If I hadn’t had MicroTrain’s training, I don’t think I could have aligned with the structure of this organization as quickly as I have. My team is learning Six Sigma and taking the PMP exam together now, so I am studying with them and I use MS Project every day. I’m really grateful for my experience there.”

This month we’re focusing on Mikeshia Manning, a bright young lady who had everything going for her until her company closed their doors and laid her off a couple years ago.

In July 2012, Mikeshia came to MicroTrain to get her PMP certification. With 10 years of experience in the banking industry, a degree in Business Administration and Management, and plenty of Project Management experience, Mikeshia had already laid the foundation for her success. 

After applying herself diligently and completing PMP, Business Analysis and Six Sigma courses at MicroTrain, Mikeshia earned her certifications. But she knew certifications alone wouldn't be enough to get her dream job. So, Mikeshia worked closely with her Career Services Manager, Elliott Esparza, to craft a winning resume, prepare for interviews and get her foot in the door with employers.

"After completing courses at Microtrain and achieving my PMP certification, Elliott assisted with my career search from beginning to end, helping me land a job at the Illinois Department of Housing as a Program Lead," Mikeshia said recently. "With his assistance, I was able to land a great opportunity. Thank you for everything."

Esparza, Mikeshia’s Career Services Manager, said her persistence, organization and ambition are the main sources of Mikeshia’s amazing success.

Congratulations to Mikeshia and to the Illinois Department of Housing for knowing a good thing when they see it!