This page houses all of the SC Works Success stories received by jobseekers, employers, S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce employees, and partner agencies. We want to commemorate the amazing experiences jobseekers and employers alike have received from SC Works centers across the state.
SC Works Success Story: Michael Mahaffey
Michael Mahaffey had spent the last 16 years incarcerated at the South Carolina Department of Corrections. He made some mistakes in his life, lost touch with his family, and accrued a large debt with the SCDMV for traffic violations that resulted in a suspended license and multiple reinstatement fees. Mahaffey did not have a clear plan on what he was going to do once he was released. The only thing in Mahaffey’s favor was that he had worked with Prison Industries for the term of his incarceration. In an effort to help prisoners adapt to our modern digital age, Mahaffey was screened and approved to participate in Operation Educate Manufirst Training Session at Tyger River Correctional Facility back in March 2021. Prior to Mahaffey’s release, two companies offered him employment.
Through the WIOA funded On-the-Job Training (OJT) program that SC Works Greater Upstate offers, Mahaffey prepared to enter his new career with Spartanburg Steel upon his release in October 2021. Within 30 days of starting with Spartanburg Steel Products, Mahaffey was given his first promotion. With his ability to earn good money, he was able to pay off all of his debt and buy himself a BMW, which he is VERY proud of! He has also been able to reconnect with his family and plan for his future. The cherry on top of this story is that Mahaffey is being trained for another promotion to become a Machine Operator! Mahaffey, grateful for his success, has begun reaching out to other former incarcerated individuals and encourages them to follow a similar path towards success.