After losing his job, Kyshawn Smalls turned to the Goodwill Career Center in Decatur for support in finding new employment. It was there that he learned about Goodwill’s clean tech skills training program for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) technicians—a rapidly growing field aligned with the increasing demand for sustainable energy and green jobs.

Intrigued by the opportunity, Kyshawn expressed some initial concerns. As a displaced worker, he was looking for a career that offered both stability and access to background-friendly employers. He discussed these concerns with the career center team, who reassured him by sharing insights on the industry’s strong growth outlook and the personalized coaching and support available to participants throughout the program—right up to job placement.

Encouraged by this guidance, Kyshawn made the decision to enroll in the EVSE program. He met all eligibility requirements and secured funding through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Building Pathways to Infrastructure Jobs (BPIJ) grant. With renewed confidence and a clear goal, Kyshawn was ready to embark on a new career journey.

Throughout the program, Kyshawn distinguished himself as a standout student. He set clear, strategic goals including launching a career in clean energy, building a professional network, and starting to save for retirement. He also took initiative in creating tailored resumes and preparing for interviews—efforts that led to multiple job opportunities.

After successfully completing the course and earning his EVSE certification, Kyshawn secured a position with Vivint as a Field Service Technician, earning $22 an hour.

“I have been doing well since our class, and I am thriving in my role as a Field Service Tech at Vivint,” Kyshawn shared. “Thank you again for your continued support. People like you mean a lot in this world.”