Chesney Brock was a full-time student working three jobs, a grueling pace that nearly derailed her academic career. But with critical support from the Bell-Whitley Community Action Agency’s Kentucky Career Center and Career Advisor Tina Campbell, Brock was able to overcome financial barriers, excel in her studies, and land her dream job as a professional Chemist.
Before receiving assistance, Brock’s schedule was overwhelming, leaving her exhausted and stressed. “Any time I was not in class, I was rushing to one of my three jobs,” she recalled. The constant pressure left little time for academics. “I would quickly quiz myself with premade notecards during my breaks and lunches just to keep up.”
The breaking point came after a difficult exam when a professor told her, “if I had to work so much that I could not study, there was no point in me going to school.” The comment made Brock feel “not smart enough” and discouraged, especially as she watched peers focus on studies and gain critical lab experience.
Everything changed when Brock connected with Tina Campbell at the Bell-Whitley Kentucky Career Center. The EKCEP partner agency provided support that relieved her financial burden, allowing her to leave her extra jobs and dedicate herself fully to her education.
“Chesney is the definition of determination. We could see her potential and knew that she wasn’t lacking in ability, just in time and resources,” said Tina Campbell, Career Advisor. “Our goal at Bell-Whitley is to remove those barriers so that hardworking people like Chesney can succeed. She did all the hard work; we just helped open the door.”
Brock described the transformation as “falling dominos.” With the freedom to focus on her classes, her grades shot up.
“It was not until Bell-Whitley helped with the financial burden that I was able to take full advantage of those opportunities,” Brock said. “Once I got my grades up, I became the recipient of several amazing scholarships.”
Her newfound success led to positions in two research labs, where she investigated microplastics and Alzheimer’s disease. In May, Brock graduated and immediately accepted a full-time Chemist II position with the Energy and Environmental Cabinet.
“None of this would have been possible without the support of Bell Whitley,” Brock stated. “I will be eternally grateful for everything they have done for me!”
About Bell-Whitley Community Action Agency Bell-Whitley Community Action Agency (CAA) is part of a statewide and national network of organizations dedicated to alleviating poverty and empowering families. As a partner in the Kentucky Career Center network, Bell-Whitley CAA provides workforce, education, and community support services to residents in Bell and Whitley counties, helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency.
About EKCEP The Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program, Inc. (EKCEP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing, advancing, and expanding the workforce of Eastern Kentucky. Through its network of Kentucky Career Center offices across 23 counties, EKCEP connects jobseekers with sustainable careers, assists employers in building a strong talent pipeline, and drives regional economic development through innovative workforce solutions and strategic partnerships. Learn more at ekcep.org