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From Student to Success: How a Partnership Helped Chris Build a Career

From Student to Success: How a Partnership Helped Chris Build a Career

 

 

From Student to Success: How One School-to-Work Partnership Helped Chris Build a Career

For Christopher Montoya, getting a job was never just about earning a paycheck. It was about building independence, developing skills, and creating opportunities for the future. Today, Chris is a valued employee at Cintas First Aid and Safety, where he contributes to daily operations while continuing to grow professionally. His journey highlights the impact of a strong school-to-work partnership between FWPS, Trillium Employment Services, local businesses, and the power of meaningful employment opportunities for students with disabilities.  

A Pathway Beyond Graduation

After graduating from Federal Way High School in 2020, Chris enrolled in the Federal Way Public Schools Employment Transition Program (ETP), a program designed to help students aged 18-22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities prepare for life after high school. The program gave him opportunities to develop workplace skills, gain experience, and explore career options before graduation. 

One of the most valuable aspects of the program was individualized support. Chris participated in mock interviews with a speech therapist and worked closely with his job coach, Casey Serquinia from Trillium, to prepare for employment. These experiences helped him build confidence and develop the skills needed to enter the workforce successfully. 

According to Liesa Spring of Trillium Employment Services, students nearing graduation can connect with employment service providers and begin their job search before leaving school, creating a smoother transition from education to employment.  

Finding the Right Opportunity

Chris had a clear vision for his future. During his final year in the transition program, he focused on building skills through internships and expressed a strong interest in office work and technology. At the same time, Trillium Employment Services was working with Cintas to develop an office support position that aligned with both Chris's interests and the company's needs.  

The result was a successful partnership among Federal Way Public Schools, Trillium Employment Services, and Cintas. Together, they created a pathway that matched Chris's strengths with a real business opportunity.  

Today, Chris's responsibilities include filing, completing computer-based training, supporting warehouse operations, restocking supplies, maintaining common areas, and ensuring office equipment remains stocked and ready for use. His role supports coworkers across the organization and helps keep daily operations running smoothly.  

Making an Impact at Cintas

Chris's contributions have not gone unnoticed. Scarlett Caldwell, Operations Manager at Cintas, says Chris assists with inventory management, organization, cleaning, restocking, and other tasks that help streamline operations and save time for employees.  

Beyond his work ethic, Chris has become a valued member of the team. Caldwell describes one of his greatest strengths as being a team player and notes that his positive attitude and energy make him a welcome presence in the workplace.  

Chris has now been with Cintas for three years and began working there before graduating from ETP. During that time, he has gained valuable workplace skills and continued to receive support from his job coach, who checks in regularly and helps when needed.  

A Model for Student Success

Chris's story demonstrates what can happen when schools, community organizations, and employers work together to support students as they transition into adulthood. The goal of the partnership between Federal Way Public Schools and Trillium Employment Services is simple: help students graduate with meaningful employment opportunities that align with their interests and career goals.  

For Chris, that goal became reality. He graduated with a job that matched his aspirations and provided a foundation for long-term success.  

Looking Toward the Future

Chris continues to set ambitious goals for himself. He hopes to save money, prepare for emergencies, and find a new home for himself and his mother. With a steady career, a strong support system, and a proven track record of success, he is well on his way.  

As Liesa Spring describes him, Chris is one of Trillium's "shining success stories." His journey is a powerful reminder that when students are given opportunities, support, and pathways to real employment, they can build not only careers but bright futures.

 

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