Aiyanna graduated in May 2025 with a Phlebotomy Certification, successfully transitioning from high school to employment through intentional planning, workforce preparation, and coordinated support through Jobs For Cincinnati Graduates (JCG) and the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program. As Aiyanna entered her senior year, she faced common barriers experienced by high school seniors – balancing academic expectations, employment challenges due to age, shifting peer relationships, and uncertainty about postsecondary and career pathways. Through individualized career planning and goal-setting provided by her JCG specialist, Aiyanna focused her efforts on a high-demand healthcare career pathway.
Midway through the school year, Aiyanna encountered situations that could have impacted her progress, including limited job opportunities due to her age and anxiety about completing the required “successful sticks” for certification.
Through ongoing case management, follow-up, and goal reassessment, Aiyanna adjusted her strategies, remained engaged in services, and continued progressing toward her employment goals.
When Aiyanna became WIOA certified, she gained access to career pathway support and work-based learning opportunities. As a result, she secured an internship at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, a key milestone aligned with WIOA performance indicators related to work experience participation and career exposure. During her internship, Aiyanna gained hands-on clinical experience, expanded her professional network, and confirmed her interest in the healthcare field.
Just eight months after graduating high school, Aiyanna achieved another major milestone and is now employed as a Phlebotomist at UC Health. Aiyanna’s success highlights the power of coordinated support, individualized career planning, and strong collaboration among JCG, workforce partners, educators, and healthcare employers. Her journey demonstrates how intentional guidance and access to resources can help young people explore career options, earn valuable credentials, and move confidently into meaningful, sustainable employment.