Workforce Student Success: Merisa Shockley

Name: 

Merisa Shockley

portrait of a woman
Merisa Shockley completed the Commercial Drivers License training program in 2024. She now has her Class A, no restrictions, commercial driver’s license, with tanker and hazmat endorsements.

Workforce training program(s) completed at Eastern:

  • Commercial Driver’s License

What is something you learned (knowledge, training, skills) during Eastern’s Workforce training program that you utilize in your workplace and/or current training?

I’m not really sure how many will consider this a success story, but for me it is. When I started this training program I had one goal and that was to have a smart backup plan. I now have my class A, no restrictions commercial, driver’s license, with tanker and hazmat endorsements. I don’t currently have a full-time truck driver position, however, I will be gaining experience driving alongside my husband.

Did trainers/instructors/staff at Eastern contribute to your career success? How did they help you?

I absolutely knew nothing about truck driving. I couldn’t change a gear to save my life. As a matter of fact I wanted to give up and drive the automatic, but my instructor would not allow it. He made sure I felt comfortable and capable! By the end of the program, I was able to do what was required to pass the class, and I felt safe and confident doing so.

What advice would you give to current Workforce students at Eastern who are looking to follow a similar path to a job?

My simple advice to anyone wanting to follow a similar path is this, don’t be hard on yourself, you are there to learn something you didn’t know, don’t give up, learn to drive the manual, and make sure your instructor has snacks.

Please feel free to share recent accomplishments and achievements in the workforce (within the last year): including projects, awards, and any relevant information.

With that being said, no I don’t have a driving career lined up but what I do have is the ability to get better-paying jobs when the time is necessary. So my success story is just that, successful!


Are you an Eastern graduate? Have you completed an Ag workforce training program at Eastern? Are you a former Early Entrance student who transferred credits to another college or university? If you are, and you want to share your success story, we would love to hear from you! Email marketing@easternwv.edu today!

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