When Courtney decided it was time to return to the workforce, she wasn’t sure where to begin. A stay-at-home mom with a passion for technology, she began searching online for training programs that could help her break into the IT field.
“Most of what I found was geared toward recent high school graduates,” she said. “I was almost ready to give up—until I came across an article about Goodwill’s IT programs.”
That discovery led Courtney to enroll in Goodwill’s tuition-free IT Support Specialist training program, where participants learn about hardware, operating systems, networking, mobile devices, security, troubleshooting, virtualization and cloud computing.
What she found was more than just technical instruction—it was a transformative experience.
“I thought I’d just be learning about computers and electronics,” she said. “But I gained so much more—interviewing skills, customer service techniques and soft skills I didn’t even realize I needed. It really prepared me for the professional world.”
Today, Courtney works as a content support technician for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, managing all the technology at an elementary school. From Chromebooks and iPads to Promethean boards, she ensures that both students and teachers have the tools they need to succeed. She also creates digital content for the school’s website and signage, blending her technical skills with creativity.
“I love what I do,” she said. “This job has brought stability and purpose to my life.”
When taking one of Goodwill’s tuition-free training programs, participants also receive wraparound support services free of charge, including help with resumes, interviews and job placement. With the guidance of her career navigator, Nakia Antley, and employer engagement specialist, Craig Kalhagen, Courtney refined her resume, practiced her elevator pitch and built the confidence to pursue a career she truly wanted.
“Nakia always brought positive energy and helped me push through moments of self-doubt,” she said. “And Craig didn’t just send me job leads. He found opportunities that matched what I was passionate about. I wouldn’t be where I am without him.”
Courtney’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact Goodwill’s programs can have.
“Some programs overcharge and don’t offer nearly as much support as Goodwill,” she said. “Anywhere I go, I tell people—if you want a career change, look into Goodwill. They’ll give you the tools, the support and the belief that you can do it.”
Thanks to donations and shopping at Goodwill’s retail stores, as well as financial support, training programs like the one Courtney completed are offered free of charge to the community.
If you’d like to help fund tuition-free courses that support people like Courtney on their pathway to prosperity, drop off your gently used donations at one of our 36 retail stores or more than 40 donation locations, or take your impact even further by making a financial contribution today.
