The journey to a new career is rarely easy, especially when balancing the responsibilities of motherhood. However, with determination and support from the Kentucky Career Center, Haley Morgan of Knox County successfully transitioned from a full-time student and mother of four to a School Nurse at Girdler Elementary School. Her success highlights the vital role that local Community Action Agencies, like KCEOC, play in connecting individuals to the resources of the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP).
Morgan first learned about the KCEOC’s Kentucky Career Center through social media and reached out in March 2023. Her primary motivation was straightforward: she needed assistance to complete her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class and continue her education toward becoming an LPN.
The biggest obstacle Morgan faced was scheduling, as she was a student and a dedicated mother of four young children. Before securing her new role, she had been entirely focused on her schooling.
“It doesn’t matter who you are or your situation, just call and set up an appointment,” Haley advises anyone hesitant to reach out, emphasizing that the support is available to everyone.
Morgan was supported by James Siler, a Business Service Consultant/Career Advisor with KCEOC. Haley called the Career Center to set up her initial appointment, and James was instrumental in guiding her through the process. The staff provided crucial financial support not only for her initial CNA training but later for the NCLEX exam required to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Morgan now works as a School Nurse at Girdler Elementary School. This new role represents a significant step forward, offering both a rewarding career and the security of a professional position. Her experience has profoundly influenced her professional goals, proving that a career change is possible with the right resources.
About KCEOC Community Action Partnership (KCEOC) is a vital community-focused organization and a proud partner of the Kentucky Career Center system, administering local workforce development programs. KCEOC offers a wide range of services, including employment services, aimed at helping individuals and families achieve economic stability and a better quality of life.
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