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Single mom earns nursing degree and Governor’s Award

After losing her job to a layoff, Jessica Barker, a single mom from St. Joseph, completed an orientation and enrollment in the Missouri Career Center’s Dislocated Worker Program, a program of Community Action Partnership . Her next step brought completion of the Certified Nursing Training program at Hillyard Technical Center. In August of 2006, Barker began the Licensed Practical Nurse program at Northland Career Center in Platte City, then finished the Registered Nurse program in May of 2008. She began employment in May of 2008 with Heartland Regional Medical Center.

“Not every step was easy, but there are people and programs out there to help someone achieve a career dream, if they’re willing to try,” said Jessica. “I love my job and the life I’ve created for myself and my son.”

In 2008, Jessica received an Individual Achievement Award for Missouri’s Northwest Region, presented by Missouri Governor Matt Blunt and the state Division of Workforce Development. The award honors individuals that have overcome barriers while successfully preparing for a new career opportunity, and have utilized assistance from Missouri’s workforce development system.