From the start, the program pushed Rosy outside her comfort zone. Learning medical vocabulary in a new language, practicing hands-on CNA skills, and preparing for the state exam required focus and determination. “It was challenging,” she shared, “but very helpful. I tried my best, and I learned a lot.” Through her hard work, she developed essential skills in communication, patient care, and how to support residents with respect and kindness.

One of Rosy’s favorite parts of the program was practicing CNA skills. It helped her feel more connected to the work and gave her confidence in how to communicate directly with patients. That confidence didn’t come easily. One of her biggest challenges was learning medical English and speaking up, but with support from her instructors and classmates, she kept improving.

Rosy describes her instructors as patient and deeply supportive, creating an environment where she could truly grow. “They tried to speak as slowly as possible and helped us so much,” she said. “It was the best experience of my life to practice English and skills to help people.” She also found steady encouragement from her Career Pathways & STEP coach, Laura, who checked in often, asked thoughtful questions, and made sure students felt supported every step of the way. “Because of her, we feel safe in the program,” Rosy shared.

Her hard work paid off in a big way. Rosy passed her CNA skills test with a perfect score and successfully passed the state exam. For someone who had only been studying English for a year when she started, it was a moment of pride and possibility. “It helped me believe in my future,” she said.

Now, Rosy is looking ahead. She plans to continue taking English classes, prepare her resume with Laura’s help, and begin working as a CNA. She’s excited to keep growing and building her career in healthcare.

For anyone considering the IET program, Rosy offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t give up. The program can be difficult, especially if English is not your first language. Ask questions and believe in yourself. You can succeed.”

Madden is a staffing agency that matches job seekers with skilled trade industries who are looking to fill positions. The industries include Welding, HVAC, and Electricians, just to name a few. This award winning agency has helped numerous students and has been a valuable partner with ������������ Career Pathways & STEP for over 10 years!  From being a staple at the Career Pathways & STEP Annual Trades Fair to doing classroom presentations for welding students, Madden and ������������ Career Pathways & STEP are a perfect match.

But for Madden, it’s not only about matching students with job opportunities, it’s also about preparation. They have helped Career Pathways & STEP students in many different ways. One of the ways is through mock interviews with Welding students, which Madden has participated for multiple terms each year.  

“This employer has always been the most consistent and enthusiastic about partnering in this way,” said Michelle Parr, the Business & Industry Liaison for Career Pathways & STEP. “They are extremely good at the interview process and provide valuable feedback to our students…and are very engaged and supportive in what we do at Career Pathways.” 

Another way Madden has helped students is through the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operator Readiness Program, which is a partnership with ������������. This cohort program includes onboarding and completing interviews with all candidates to give them live interview practice, relevant compensation for participation in the program, and ultimately Madden assisting students in finding opportunities in CNC operation. 

“We worked with over one hundred candidates in total!” explained Brooklyn Kozlowski, Recruiter Team Lead for Madden. “We were also able to be a resource by providing industry knowledge to the candidates regarding compensation, hiring processes, and key qualifications local companies are looking for in their CNC operators. We truly value our partnership with ������������. We are very proud of our work with the CNC Operator Readiness program.” 

Madden has been in business for 38 years. They have been recognized as one of Oregon’s top workplaces, and was named one of the Top Recruiting Firms in the US by Business Insider in 2025. They have made an enormous impact at ������������ and the Career Pathways & STEP programs through various avenues. “Madden respects the relationship we have with ������������ and its different programs,” said Keri Schwarzott, Senior Recruiter for Madden. 

This year, they were awarded the 2026 ������������ Patron Award. This annual award recognizes individuals and organizations whose sustained commitment to education transforms lives. The ������������ Foundation honored the Madden Family’s dedication to prepare ������������ students who are entering the trades industry through an endowed scholarship and service. Ken Madden, owner of Madden Industrial Craftsmen, has served on the ������������ Foundation Board, the ������������ Board of Directors, and as co-chair of The Campaign for Opportunity. Their investments help students gain real skills, earn family-wage careers, and build stronger futures as seen in the Career Pathways & STEP programs.  

“We sincerely appreciate our partnership with ������������ and the opportunities we’ve had to work alongside your (Career Pathways & STEP) team over the years,” said Kelsy Scotch, President of Madden. “We also truly value our relationship with ������������ and the meaningful work we’ve been able to do together. It’s been a privilege to support your students and programs, and we look forward to continuing that partnership.”