Terry Baker embodies the spirit of “paying it forward.” Growing up in an environment plagued by drug abuse, Terry’s early life led him into criminal activities and incarceration by the age of 15. During one prison stint, Terry faced a difficult decision: visit his mother on her deathbed or attend her funeral. Choosing to see her one last time, he made a promise to turn his life around.
In 2019, Terry took a significant step toward change by enrolling in the North Texas Institute for Career Development’s (NTI) CDL Professional Truck Driver Course. After earning his Class-C license, he joined Goodwill’s Transportation team. His exceptional work ethic and warm personality quickly caught the attention of his classmates, instructors and Goodwill leadership, earning him the title of Goodwill North Central Texas’ Achiever of the Year in 2022.
But Terry’s journey didn’t stop there. He continued to forge ahead by becoming a CDL instructor at NTI, where he now inspires and motivates his students. His mission is to help others overcome their barriers to employment and pursue excellence. Through his work, Terry has found a supportive family among his students, colleagues and the wider community. This is his story.