Before coming to Goodwill, Cadetra Harris faced an uphill battle. As a single mother, she moved from job to job, struggling to make ends meet and take care of her family. The uncertainty of her situation was a constant source of worry.
Determined to create a better life for herself and her children, Cadetra set her sights on earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to become a professional truck driver. In January 2024, she took a bold step and enrolled in the CDL program at the North Texas Institute for Career Development (NTI).
Cadetra’s journey was not without its challenges. She battled anxiety while studying for her Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and faced significant financial hurdles. Yet, she remained undeterred: “With the support and encouragement from the staff at NTI, from the instructors to the advisors, I had so many people standing behind me, pushing me to do what I was afraid to do. Step by step, I realized I was doing this very uncomfortable thing, but eventually, I made my dream a reality.”
The first week of practical training was particularly tough. Cadetra recalls crying on the training pad but persisted, showing up day after day. Her perseverance paid off: she became the first person in her cohort to pass the CDL program.
Reflecting on her life before Goodwill’s CDL program, Cadetra expresses deep gratitude for the instructors and staff who believed in her and provided the encouragement she needed. For her, obtaining a CDL is more than just securing a job; it’s about building a future she can be proud of and providing for her children.
Today, Cadetra is employed at Schneider Trucking and is eagerly looking forward to her new career on the open road. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of determination and the vital support offered by Goodwill North Central Texas.