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Driving Change: Emerge Career and NYC MOCJ’s Partnership Transforms Lives
At Emerge Career, we believe in the power of opportunity. When given the right resources, individuals can build sustainable careers that not only support their futures but also strengthen communities & generations. That’s why we are proud to highlight our partnership with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ)—a collaboration that is breaking barriers and changing lives.
In 2024, MOCJ entrusted Emerge Career with a critical mission: to train and employ 20 individuals in Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) careers within a year. But Emerge Career didn’t just meet that goal—we surpassed expectations. In just two months, we successfully trained and lined up employment for 20 individuals, equipping them with the skills and credentials needed for long-term success in the transportation industry.
A Partnership Built for Impact
The success of this initiative is a testament to the strength of our partnership with MOCJ. Both organizations share a deep commitment to providing pathways to meaningful employment, particularly for individuals impacted by the justice system. By focusing on career-oriented training, we are not only helping participants secure jobs but also fostering economic mobility and reducing recidivism.
CDL careers offer stability, strong wages, and a growing job market—key factors that make this program so effective. Participants gain more than just a license; they gain independence, security, and a chance to rewrite their futures.
Andrew's Journey: From Unemployment to Unstoppable
Meet Andrew—someone who refused to let unemployment define his future. After facing job struggles, he discovered Emerge Career, a program that didn’t just train him but truly transformed his path. Through hands-on learning, career coaching, and the support of a network that believes in second chances, Andrew gained the skills and confidence to step into a new career. Now, he’s not just employed—he’s thriving! Andrew’s story is proof that with the right support, anyone can rewrite their future.
You can watch Andrew share his experience in his own words here.
Scaling Up for Greater Impact
With this incredible momentum, Emerge Career and MOCJ are ready to expand our efforts. Our shared vision is clear: to help even more individuals access life-changing career opportunities in the coming years. This means scaling up training programs, increasing job placements, and continuing to build a network of employer partners eager to hire skilled workers.
By investing in training and employment programs like this one, we are creating a more inclusive workforce—one where every individual, regardless of their past, has the chance to thrive.
Emerge Career has already begun expanding their reach by partnering with over 40 organizations to ensure justice impacted individuals have access to the Free CDL training that's being funded by MOCJ.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning. The success of our collaboration with MOCJ proves that with the right support, career training can be a powerful tool for social and economic progress. We look forward to continuing our work together and expanding opportunities for many more individuals ready to take the wheel of their futures.
Are you an employer looking for trained CDL professionals? Please reach out to partner with us here.
Or are you an individual interested in a career in commercial driving? Join us on this journey!
Stay tuned as we continue to scale our impact, one success story at a time.
