What does it take to train for and launch a new career?
For Don Lambert, determination and hard work, a few months’ time, and the help of dedicated and professional instructors were all it took to set him on a brand new path of possibilities.
In the spring of 2005, Don was an injured worker hoping to change careers and ready to begin a re-training program.
After researching his options, he decided to enroll in the Diskovery® Job Skills Training Program offered by Ontario March of Dimes, because of our many years of experience in training and finding employment for people with disabilities.
Don was apprehensive about spending months in training, but also excited to begin a new journey. He began by learning telephone courtesy, quality customer service, and effectively managing customer complaints.
He received a certificate in the Service Excellence training program, and then completed the Diskovery Summer Computer Programs for Word and Excel Introduction.
He went on to an intense study of Windows, the Internet, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Simply Accounting, and also participated in Business Employment Success and Teamwork (B.E.S.T.) classes to increase his knowledge of job search techniques and strategies.
Don began a co-op placement at Staples/The Business Depot in December, 2005, a perfect place for him to explore his keen interest in digital photography and computers, and use his customer service and computer training.
That, coupled with his inquisitive personality and a strong desire to succeed, made him a great fit at Staples.
By the end of January, not only had Don successfully completed the CSA program (and received his Niagara College Certificate), he had also been offered permanent employment with Staples.
To top it all off, Don was soon after named Staples Employee of the Month. Congratulations to Don from everyone at Ontario March of Dimes!
