SOUTH BAY ONE-STOP BUSINESS & CAREER CENTERS
Meet Sandra Mercado
Workforce Challenge:
Sandra Mercado first visited the South Bay One-Stop Business and Career Center – Inglewood in September 2018. Despite nearly two decades of experience in the manufacturing sector, Ms. Mercado had difficulty in career advancement opportunities and her wages were consistently below industry averages and just slightly above minimum wage.
Workforce Solution:
Following her orientation, she received career counseling and was assisted in developing an individualized employment plan that included occupational skills training. She was enrolled in the Occupational Skills Training Program to gain specialized competencies in the area of Non Destructive Testing (NDT).
Outcome and Benefits:
Upon completion of her course work in January 2019, Ms. Mercado was hired as a NDT Technician by Gardena - based Impresa Aerospace. In July she completed her level II qualifications and received a wage increase.
“You all do more than just find people jobs. You help people get back on their feet and get their life back! I never thought I could accomplish any of this. None of it would be possible without the help of the One-Stop, Impresa Aerospace, and AATA. I’m grateful for the opportunities.”