Finding a career that aligns with both personal passion and financial stability can be challenging. For Colton Kalua’u, WorkOne Indy provided the support needed to build a stronger future while keeping his long-term goal of starting a sustainable farm within reach. 

Turning a Passion Into a Career Path 

A native of Hawaii, where acquiring land and launching a small agricultural business can be difficult, Colton relocated to Indiana to pursue opportunities that would bring him closer to that goal. 

Working as a teacher at Guerin Catholic High School, Colton shared his passion for farming and food justice with students through the school’s St. Isidore regenerative farm. He enjoyed teaching students how to grow food responsibly and sustainably. 

While the work was meaningful, Colton needed a career that offered greater financial stability. 

That’s when he connected with WorkOne Indy. 

Finding the Right Resources 

Working with a career navigator, Colton explored training and funding opportunities aligned with his long-term plans. Through those conversations, he discovered a heavy equipment operator certification program that would provide skills directly applicable to agricultural work and farm operations. 

“I think it’s amazing that the state has this resource available to people because, especially in today’s competitive job market, having a degree is not always enough,” Colton said. “You’ve got to find ways to set yourself apart.” 

As someone of Hawaiian heritage, Colton received additional support through the Native American Employment and Training Program at the Council of Three Rivers American Indian Center (COTRAIC), an EmployIndy partner located within WorkOne Indy on the city’s east side. The organization works to reduce unemployment among Native American and Indigenous communities by connecting individuals with employment, training, and supportive services. 

“We partner with WorkOne Indy because of our shared goal of helping residents like Colton improve their lives through access to training and services that lead to greater economic security and job satisfaction,” said Patricia McKinney, employment and training counselor for the Native American Employment and Training Program at COTRAIC. 

With support from WorkOne Indy and COTRAIC, Colton completed the training and earned his heavy equipment operator certification. The partnership helped remove financial barriers that might otherwise have prevented him from pursuing the training.