Robin at The WorkPlace

Bridgeport, CT

From survival to success, a single mother builds a new life from hard work.

Everything changed for Robin when she lost her job at an outpatient radiology company. She had to quickly find work that could provide both support for her three children and flexibility to meet the demand of their schedules. This resulted in Robin working odd jobs to cover their bills.

Once her kids were in school full time, she had more time to dedicate to finding steady employment. She started work at a homecare agency as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). However, she was a per diem employee, which meant she only worked when her employer needed her, and benefits were not included.

Five years passed and Robin saw a reduction in her hours at the homecare agency. She knew she needed to gain financial security if she wanted to provide a better future for her children. She went to her local unemployment office seeking part-time benefits. While in line, Robin noticed HPOG’s Health Career Academy posters offering tuition assistance that read, “Let Us Build Your Pathway to a Brighter Future.” She stepped out of line and walked down the street to the Health Career Academy’s office. She had finally found an opportunity for career advancement in a field where she had years of experience.

Robin previously completed billing and coding courses, but was never certified. She knew that becoming a Certified Professional Coder was right for her. The Health Career Academy provided Robin tuition assistance for medical coding training at Housatonic Community College.  They also ran job readiness workshops, and a three-month online program consisting of courses ranging from conflict resolution to resume writing. Robin attended a seminar titled Motivation through Health and Wellness, which helped her identify what was keeping her from fulfilling her goals. The emotional support she received was as important as the financial and academic assistance.

Robin completed the Certified Professional Coder program in August 2017. She is working with the Health Career Academy’s Employer Specialist to transition from her current CNA position to a career in Billing and Coding. Her experience taught her that effort and hard work pave the way to success.

“Some people are gifted, some people are special, I like to call myself determined. Success takes time and hard work to achieve.”

This success story was self-identified by the grantee and information contained in this document was provided by the grantee.

Robin at The WorkPlace (PDF)