Max Hall is a 20-year-old from Smyth County, Virginia. After struggling to complete his high school diploma online, Max found himself stuck in dead-end jobs with no way out. That all changed when he met his girlfriend, who introduced him to staff from People Incorporated’s Youth Workforce Development program. 

The program helped Max get his GED through Mt. Rogers Adult Education program and discover a career that suited him. Through career and personality assessments, Max realized that a manufacturing job would be a great fit. Case management staff with the WIOA Youth program and Youth Build worked together to arrange a tour of Somic America, an automotive manufacturing facility in Wythe County. Max was interested in the work and soon enrolled in a paid work experience at Somic. With the help of his caseworker, he completed a career studies certificate in three months instead of the usual six. 

Max found motivation and support through his People Incorporated caseworker, who kept encouraging him to keep up with the schoolwork required to complete his GED and certificate. “There were times when I was tempted to stop doing it, but they kept bringing me back and helping me to stay on it,” said Max. “And it was worth it.”  

In collaboration with New River Mt. Rogers Workforce Development Board and the Youth Build program, People Inc. also assisted with the costs of the GED program and training and provided a laptop for Max to complete his schoolwork at home. Without the opportunity for a paid work experience, Max wouldn’t have had the funds to get the training he needed for his new career. “They made it really easy,” said Max. 

Working at Somic has helped with Max’s confidence and motivation. While he struggled with finding motivation to go to work in the past, he now looks forward to his job and takes pride in his work. “Knowing that I’m able to make safe parts is pretty cool”, said Max.  

Max has now been with Somic for over a year, and he hopes to make it a long-term career. He keeps in touch with his People Incorporated caseworker, who has been cheering him on every step of the way. Through the help and support he’s received from the agency, Max is looking forward to his future.   

Watch Max’s story: