Pennsylvania native Bradley Walker made his way to Stone Mountain in 1997 in search of better job opportunities and quality of life. Shortly after relocating, he met his wife, L’Cretia, and the couple decided to move to her home state of Tennessee. 

In 2013, L’Cretia accepted a position with Marta and the Walkers came back to Stone Mountain, where Bradley continued pursuing his manufacturing career, ultimately rising to a supervisory position. With the onset of COVID-19 in 2020, Bradley decided that his working environment, combined with some health issues, required a career change. The Walkers felt truck driving would be an industry that would provide employment stability and growth potential – and it would be something they could pursue together, since L’Cretia already had a CDL. 

Bradley was investigating CDL programs when a friend recommended Goodwill. He sought more information about the Supply Chain Management program and its Transportation track and the more he learned, the more impressed he became. He visited the Decatur Career Center in late November 2021 and enrolled with financial support provided by WIOA. 

When classes began, Bradley distinguished himself among his peers and credits the solid foundation he obtained from his time in manufacturing. Skills Trainer Jacqueline Dottin-Dodd noted Bradley’s exceptional command of the course material and his record scores in various simulation exercises. At the program’s conclusion, he earned numerous certifications including Supply Chain Management Principles and the prestigious Georgia Tech LEAP (Logistics Education & Pathways), along with OSHA10 and CPR/First Aid. 

In January 2022, Bradley began his CDL-A training at Georgia Driving Academy. During this phase of the program, he received gas cards to assist with transportation costs, sharing that this support was especially helpful. Bradley continued to perform at a high level, and even before completing the training, he had two conditional offers of employment. 

Bradley passed his CDL-A exam in mid-February and accepted an expeditor position with Panther Premium Logistics, which he began in late April. Since completing the program, he has also obtained HAZMAT endorsement. As he and L’Cretia look to the future, they have discussed purchasing their own truck, which would allow them to start their own business. 

Bradley is grateful to Goodwill for helping him pursue his new career – and the Goodwill team is eager to follow Bradley and L’Cretia on their journey.