Driven forward: Workforce Development helps Charise Champion build a new future

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A person stands smiling and holding a sign for "160 Driving Academy Truck Driver Training" that reads "One and Done Club 2025. — *Charise Champion.*

For many job seekers, career reinvention begins with a moment of uncertainty. For Charise Champion, that moment came after years of success in the film, television and Broadway industries, during which she built a career as a hairstylist on major productions and shows. After more than a decade in New York’s entertainment industry, Champion moved to California to raise her children near family while continuing to travel between California and New York for production work.

But when the entertainment industry slowed due to major disruptions, including the writers’ strike and the growing impact of artificial intelligence, the steady work Champion had relied on became increasingly unpredictable. Like many workers facing sudden changes in their industry, she began searching for a new path that could provide stability, independence and long-term opportunity.

“I reached a point where I wanted more opportunities, greater independence and a career that challenged me in new ways,” Champion said. “Earning my commercial driver’s license was one of the most challenging and rewarding accomplishments of my life.”

Before discovering the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Department, Champion explored different options to support herself and her family. She drove for Uber for a time but often felt unsafe working at night. Later, while working as a security guard, she began noticing women driving commercial trucks into the facility. Watching them succeed in an industry she had once assumed was not for her changed her perspective.

“That’s when it clicked,” Champion said. “I thought, if they can do it, I can do it.”

Champion began researching how to become a commercial truck driver and learned about Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act-funded workforce programs. She connected with the San Bernardino County America’s Job Center of California (AJCC), where Workforce Development staff helped assess her goals and explain the resources available to her. Although staff carefully discussed the demands of the trucking industry and encouraged her to consider all available career pathways, she remained focused. She was determined to pursue a field that matched her independence, work ethic and love of driving.

Through Workforce Development’s support, Champion enrolled in training at 160 Driving Academy. The program required long days, discipline and persistence. She practiced until she gained confidence, asked questions whenever she needed help, and committed herself fully to mastering the skills required to succeed. Her persistence paid off. Champion passed her driving test on the first try.

“Receiving my commercial driver’s license represented more than a license,” Champion said. “It symbolized resilience, perseverance and the belief that reinvention is possible at any stage of life.”

Workforce Development also helped Champion with the practical support needed to begin her new career, including assistance in acquiring work clothing, boots and other items required for training and employment. She said that support allowed her to begin her next step prepared and confident.

“This opportunity literally changed my life,” Champion said. “Ever since then, I have not had any worries about job placement or looking for a job. It changed everything.”

After completing her truck driver training, Champion was hired by Schneider National as a commercial truck driver and successfully completed the company’s intensive training program. She later continued building experience by working with an owner-operator while expanding her credentials. Champion has since earned additional endorsements, including hazmat and tanker, opening the door to even more opportunities across the transportation industry.

Today, Champion sees trucking not only as a job but as the foundation for a broader future. She is gaining experience on the road while studying freight lanes, industry costs and logistics with the goal of eventually opening her own brokerage company to connect drivers with customers. Having been behind the wheel herself, she believes she will bring a unique understanding of what drivers need to succeed.

Her story reflects the broader mission of the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board (WDB), which does more than help residents find a job. Through its three America’s Job Centers of California, WDB helps individuals assess their skills, identify career pathways, update resumes, prepare for interviews, access training and gain the tools needed to build a future.

Champion hopes her experience encourages others, especially women and people considering a major career change, to believe that it is never too late to start over.

“Sometimes you have to get uncomfortable to get comfortable,” she said. “Don’t overthink it. Step outside the box, because that can open doors you never expected.”

“Charise’s success is a powerful reminder that workforce development is about creating opportunity, stability and hope for residents and families,” said San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “When individuals have access to training, guidance and support, they can build new careers and new futures.”

WDB Chair Shannon Shannon said Champion’s determination, combined with WDB’s personalized support, reflects the mission of the board.

“Charise had the courage to pursue a new path, and WDB was there to help her turn that goal into a career,” Shannon said. “Her story shows that our work is not simply about job placement—it is about helping people gain confidence, build skills and move toward long-term success.”

Programs like these are made possible through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). WDB continues to deliver career services and customized support that equip residents with the tools they need to thrive.

To connect with workforce resources, please visit our website, call 800-451-JOBS (5627), or follow us on social media at @SBCWorkforce.

Additional County Update News – July 2, 2026