From a Passion for Computers into a Plan for the Future: Nicholas’ IT Journey

At the Goodwill Northern New England’s Maine Mall location, Sales Associate Nicholas Palmer has spent the last two years building skills, confidence, and a clear vision for his future. Now, with support from Goodwill’s Employee Life Navigation and Workforce Solutions teams, Nicholas is taking meaningful steps toward a new career in information technology.

“I love to learn, and I love computers,” Nicholas shares. That passion sparked a goal to pursue CompTIA A+ certification, a widely recognized credential that opens the door to entry-level IT roles like help desk support.

For Nicholas, the idea of changing careers was exciting, but it came with real questions. How would he find the right training program? How could he afford it? And how could he navigate the process while continuing to work?

That is where Goodwill’s support network came in.

Connecting Goals with the Right Support

Crystal Slone, an Employee Life Navigator with Goodwill Northern New England, met Nicholas during an on-site visit at the Maine Mall store. During that conversation, he shared his interest in transitioning into IT and the barriers he was experiencing around education and certification.

“He enjoys his current job as a cashier,” Crystal says, “but he really had this greater goal of entering the field of IT.”

For Nicholas, that connection was critical. “Crystal helped guide me to the right resources I needed to pursue a career in Information Technologies,” he says.

Crystal recognized that Goodwill’s Workforce Solutions could help bridge the gap between Nicholas’ current role and his long-term career goal. Together, they reached out and began the process of connecting him with education and career planning resources designed to support community members and employees alike.

“I don’t know what I would have done without the help of Employee Life Navigations,” Nicholas adds. “Crystal has been a huge help for where I am at and the opportunities I have today.”

Building a Plan for the Future

Nicholas was connected with Elizabeth Medina, a Career Advisor for Workforce Solutions. Their first step was to get a clear understanding of where Nicholas wanted to go and then work backwards.

“Nicholas really wanted to work in IT, specifically help desk,” Elizabeth explains. “So, we explored what certifications were needed to reach an entry-level position and what training options would be the best fit.”

Together, they reviewed approved training providers and found one that met Nicholas’ needs, including accommodations that supported his learning. Workforce Solutions also provided financial assistance, covering the cost of instruction and helping Nicholas focus on his coursework and exam preparation.

Beyond training, Elizabeth continues to support Nicholas with resume development, job searching, and next steps after certification.

“Our role is to look at the bigger picture,” she says, “and help people move toward career goals in a way that works for them.”

Education That Opens Doors

For Nicholas, the experience has been transformational.

“Education will always be there for you,” he says. “No matter who you are or what barriers you face, you can always go for an education.”

He recognizes that the path has not been easy, but he is clear about the value of taking that step forward. His advice to other Goodwill employees considering education or a career change is simple.

“Do not be afraid. Just go for it,” Nicholas says. “Is it easy? No, it’s not. But it is worth it to make that dream a reality.”

Through the combined efforts of Employee Life Navigation and Workforce Solutions, Nicholas is gaining the skills, credentials, and confidence he needs to pursue a future in IT. His story is one example of how Goodwill Northern New England supports people not just in their current roles, but in building what comes next.