Russell had been unemployed for more than 6 months before coming to Digital Works in the fall of 2015. He was looking for gainful employment with benefits and advancement opportunity.
Russell had read about Digital Works in a local Columbus, Ohio, newspaper article and felt the flexibility a work-from-home opportunity offers, along with his past experience and professional drive, would be an ideal fit.
“I have more than 20 years of experience working within the customer service industry. Not only over the phone, but face-to-face,” shared Russell. “I have an extremely motivated attitude to succeed and excel.”
After completing the Digital Works program, Russell had been offered a bricks and mortar opportunity for a well-known logistics and delivery organization, which he accepted. After a few months, he’d decided the flexibility of working from home was still something he wanted to pursue. Russell engaged his Digital Works placement advisors and began applying to remote work positions with the various employer partners. In July 2016, Russell was hired with MaritzCX to conduct marketing research. He is enjoying the part-time work, especially the monetary bonuses and perks that come with the position. Russell continues to improve his technical skills and build his resume as he seeks advanced tech support positions.
“Training was very thorough and I have been able to use these skills in every day life,” said Russell. “Digital Works is a fantastic organization that provides quality technical training and employment opportunities.”
Russell enjoys sharing about his Digital Works training, his tips for interviewing with various companies, and his current and past employment opportunities. He jumps at any chance to help others reach their goals and aspirations, even as he continues to reach his own. A few weeks ago, he spoke with current trainees at the Digital Works – Reeb Avenue Center and continues to provide mentorship to program participants. Digital Works alumni are a key component in building a professional network of support for program participants, leading to professional success and advancement.
In Columbus, Digital Works has created nearly 40 jobs in the last year. Thirty-eight percent of these jobs involved assisting candidates in overcoming prior barriers to employment. These barriers range from physical limitations and disabilities to imperfect backgrounds. The work-from-home opportunities available through Digital Works offer jobs to fit innumerable needs and lifestyles.
Find out more about how Digital Works is connecting people and jobs at digitalworksjobs.org.
Russell pictured with a training class in July.