Success Story: Chris Flath

Chris Flath was working at Brian’s Repair as Roadside Service but had to quit due to medical reasons.  The doctor had told him he needed to find a job that was less physically demanding.  Chris enjoys vehicles and is very knowledge about mechanics.  Also, he grew up around trucks and his dad drove trucks.  So, he thought getting his CDL would be a good fit.  After completing the intake, career assessment and classroom training guide, it was evident that CDL would be a good option. 

Chris does not have stable housing and is living between friends and family and his income falls below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline.  So, I thought he would be a good candidate for Drive for Five.  After our initial discussion, we completed the intake, career assessment, classroom training guide and training interview.  Chris was accepted to the Drive for Five program and started the CDL program at 160 Driving Academy in Fargo.  Currently, he completed the 40 hours of classroom training and his health physical.  He is going to start the behind the wheel section soon, and stated, “the instructor told him he could complete the behind the wheel portion quickly because of his extensive knowledge of vehicles.”  Chris is enjoying the program and learning a lot.  He claimed, “the program is teaching me way more than what I thought.”  He looks forward to finishing the behind-the-wheel section and finding a job as a truck driver.  Furthermore, he is excited because 160 Driving Academy has recruiters who come to the program and hiring students right from the program.

Written by Kim Imdieke, Chris’ Job Counselor, Rural MN CEP