Before discovering the CareerWork$ BankWork$ program, Diarelis Rodriguez was facing a difficult reality that many job seekers know well. She was working hard but struggling financially and living paycheck to paycheck while trying to find a higher-paying job that could support her long-term needs.

Diarelis knew she wanted a career with stability and growth, but breaking into a new industry without prior experience felt intimidating.

That changed when she enrolled in the BankWork$ program through CareerWork$ partner Employ Milwaukee.

As someone who had never worked in financial services before, Diarelis initially questioned whether she had the knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. Through BankWork$, she gained foundational banking knowledge along with professional skills that prepared her to confidently pursue a career in financial services.

“The knowledge I gained from BankWork$ helped instill the confidence that I was capable of doing the job,” she shared.

The program provided both technical understanding of the banking industry and practical preparation for entering the workforce. When Diarelis participated in the program’s hiring event, that preparation paid off. She was offered a position as a Financial Specialist at UW Credit Union in April 2023.

What began as a new opportunity quickly became the start of a thriving career.

Since joining UW Credit Union, Diarelis has continued to grow both personally and professionally. Through her role, she has taken part in experiences that have expanded her leadership and industry knowledge. She has attended professional summits, participated in major events such as gala experiences, and even had the opportunity to teach college students about financial literacy and the fundamentals of managing money.

These opportunities have allowed her not only to develop her own career but also to give back by sharing knowledge with others.

In July 2025, Diarelis was promoted to Senior Financial Specialist, marking an important milestone in her professional journey and recognizing the dedication and expertise she brings to her work.

Today, Diarelis credits the BankWork$ program with helping her build the foundation that led to both financial stability and a meaningful career path in the financial services industry.

Her advice for others considering a similar path is rooted in perseverance and confidence.

“Do not give up despite the challenges that may arise. In the financial services industry, you are constantly learning new things, and it is important to have the confidence that you are capable of continuing to learn and grow throughout your professional career.”

Stories like Diarelis’s demonstrate the long-term impact of CareerWork$ programs. By connecting motivated individuals with industry-aligned training and employer partners, CareerWork$ helps open doors to stable careers and opportunities for growth.

Diarelis’s journey is a powerful example of how the right training, support, and opportunity can transform a job search into a lasting and rewarding career.