11 Mar ‘It’s okay to ask for help’: Clarksville man builds career, discovers lasting friendship through Goodwill Career Solutions  

John Lawien spent most of his career working in factories, on machines, and bouncing around from one skilled labor job to the next. After spending 20 years doing physical labor, he knew it was time for a change.  

John began working as a correctional officer for several years at multiple different penitentiaries in Kentucky and Tennessee. The work was draining, he says, especially after two decades of physical jobs that were hard on his body. As he entered his fifties, his work history began to take its toll.  

“When I go into employment, I go all in,” John said. “I was suffering from injuries from years of working in factories.” 

John began to search for a new opportunity and discovered his age was working against him. He couldn’t manage to find a company that would say ‘yes.’ 

“It was frustrating because I would apply for places all over, and one of them basically confirmed for me they were looking for someone younger,” John said.  

He began working part-time as a mall security officer but still had a strong desire to find a higher-paying and more stable job. One day while John was searching for ways to build his career online, he saw an advertisement for Goodwill Career Solutions.  

“I always used to see the Career Solutions sign when I would donate to Goodwill, but I never had a reason to go in before,” John said. “I thought, ‘What can it hurt?’” 

Upon walking into the Career Center, John met and quickly befriended Goodwill Career Navigator Doug Walton. The two bonded over a similar work history. Doug spent several years working in correctional facilities as well and was knowledgeable about the job’s duties and hardships. 

“It was easy to connect with John because I have worked that same career, and I knew some of the ins and outs of what that was like for him,” Doug said.  

After learning more about John’s background and skillset, Doug helped him re-vamp his resume and search for jobs to apply for. He also helped John strengthen his interview skills when he began to secure initial interviews. With Doug’s guidance, support, and friendship, John has found multiple different full-time security jobs in the several years he has been working with Doug. When things didn’t work out at one job, Doug was standing by, ready to help John find something that was a better fit for him. Currently, John works security for a local parks and recreation center. While he feels fulfilled in his current role, he knows if he ever needs help, Doug is ready and willing.  

“Doug has been wonderful to work with,” John said. “He is an excellent communicator, he got my resume to shine, and he gave me many tips and tricks. We have developed a great friendship and working relationship.” 

John is one of thousands of Goodwill clients who discover the power of having someone in their corner cheering them on through all of life’s challenges.  

“Doug is really a coach; someone who can help guide you, help move you forward,” John said. “Goodwill Career Solutions is a great asset to the community, and I would encourage anyone who needs support in their career to stop in and meet with a career navigator.”