Sergio Ledesma’s journey reflects the impact of comprehensive workforce services in helping farmworkers achieve stable, long-term employment. A Tulare County resident and head of household supporting four dependents, Sergio has more than 12 years of experience as a seasonal agricultural worker. Despite his strong work ethic, he faced significant barriers, including limited formal education (10th grade), periods of unemployment, prior incarceration, and reliance on public assistance such as CalFresh and Medi-Cal.
Seeking a better future for his family, Sergio enrolled in Proteus, Inc.'s Farmworker Advancement Program (FAP 60923). After completing eligibility, assessments, and an Individual Employment Plan with his Employer Service Representative, Sergio identified truck driving as a career path that aligned with his skills and long-term goals.
With the support of Proteus, Inc. and his Employer Service Representative, Sergio received critical supportive services, including food assistance, gas vouchers, rental assistance, and work-related supplies, which allowed him to remain focused on training. He successfully completed Truck Driving Training with Apache Truck Training Service and earned his Class A Commercial Driver’s License on September 16, 2025. To further strengthen his employability, Sergio also completed forklift training at William Maguy School of Education.
Following training, Sergio actively applied for employment and was hired by Central Trucking LLC, beginning October 23, 2025. He now earns $80 per load, completing two loads per day, six days per week—representing a significant improvement in income stability compared to his prior seasonal agricultural work.
Sergio shared that the training and support he received through Proteus, Inc. and his Employer Service Representative opened doors to opportunities he once believed were out of reach. He is proud of his accomplishments and plans to continue growing within the trucking industry to provide long-term stability for his family.
Sergio’s success highlights how targeted training, supportive services, and individualized career planning through the Farmworker Advancement Program empower participants to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable employment.
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