Do you want proof that a school can help you get a job you’ll be proud of, that supports a stable income, and that prepares you for real-world work? At OBC, thousands of graduates have done just that. Today, we’re sharing five real-life testimonials from OBC alumni.

These stories highlight a different path from training to real work. They show what’s possible when you commit to your future.

Gary Hogan – Truck Driving Academy Graduate

Career: OBC Truck Driving Academy
Outcome: Immediate job placement after training

One of the most striking trade success stories comes from Gary Hogan, an OBC Truck Driving Academy graduate. Gary’s story speaks directly to students considering a career behind the wheel.

After completing his training at OBC, Gary took action. He didn’t wait months looking for work, he walked out of the program and into employment. OBC staff connected him with opportunities, and just three days after receiving job listings from the college, he secured a position with MPS Group, working at AK Steel.

“I came through Ohio Business College with a job. I left that job and stopped into Ohio Business College and Donny (Banks) and Rita (Hoke) went out of their way and took the time to give me some listings they had. 3 days later I had a new job at MPS Group working at AK Steel.”

Mark Barnhardt – From Student to Paid Professional

Career: OBC Truck Driving Academy
Outcome: Stable job earning good money

Another standout from the truck driving program is Mark Barnhardt. Mark chose OBC for practical reasons—the location was close to home and the staff supported him throughout the process.

“I chose Ohio Business College because… ‘it was close to home and has a great staff. I work for Osborne Trucking making good money!’”

Lashawn Marshall – Trade Skills That Translate to Work

Career Impact: IT and technical skills
Outcome: Employed at a major tech firm

Lashawn’s program journey is rooted in hands-on training that led directly to employment.

“I love OBC. I like how they have small classes, better for the teachers to have that one-on-one with the students. You can go to anyone for help, from teacher to faculty.”

After finishing her program, Lashawn began working for Geek Squad, a well-known tech support and repair provider. This is a great example of how OBC prepares students not just for jobs, but for careers that rely on technical competence and confidence.

Sara Widman – Skills That Last Long After Graduation

Career: Office Manager / Administrative Skills
Outcome: Gained tools used daily in her job

Not every trade student will head into a job that requires heavy machinery or tools, but many will enter careers that require practical, applied skills—like organization, software use, communication, and problem solving.

“The notebook/ binder that Dee Bowerstock’s class prepared me with, not only helped to land this position by showing off my computer skills and ability to create documents on a moment’s notice, but is useful to this day as I still refer back to it for ideas and refreshers.”

Sara still uses what she learned from OBC every day in her work. This story matters because it highlights a key point: education isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s a set of skills you can use right now. Whether you plan to operate heavy equipment, manage work sites, or run a team, the practical training pays off.

Regina Messer – Taking Care of Family and Building a Future

Career Impact: Improved job prospects after training
Outcome: Better life stability

Trade education often isn’t just about jobs—it can be about changing life circumstances. Regina Messer’s testimonial puts this into perspective: she says OBC training gave her “the means to take care of my daughter and live a better life.”

For students with families or responsibilities, this kind of outcome is powerful. Regina’s story reminds us that education is a tool—and when it’s the right tool, it helps people meet real needs in their lives.

What These Stories Have in Common

These five testimonials reflect different goals and outcomes, but they share several themes:

Training That Leads to Jobs

Whether it’s truck driving, nursing, HVAC, electricial applications or office skills, OBC alumni find jobs soon after training. Several grads reported immediate hires after externships or direct job listings from Career Services.

Hands-On Learning That Builds Confidence

Students often point to the practical training and supportive instructors as reasons they felt ready for work. This kind of training is what employers expect, and helps students start working after graduation.

Support Through Job Search

OBC’s Career Services helps students prepare resumes, interview, and connect with employers in the region. Close employer ties mean graduates don’t have to search on their own.

Personal Growth and Better Life Skills

Beyond specific jobs, graduates gain confidence, independence, and the ability to support their families, goals that matter for long-term success.

Why These Stories Matter to You

If you’re thinking about trade school, these real-life testimonials show what’s possible when you take action:

• You can complete training and start work sooner than you might think.
• Hands-on learning helps you build practical skills employers value.
• Career support connects you to jobs, not just certificates.
• Trade work isn’t just a job—it can be a stable, rewarding career.

These OBC alumni chose to take control of their futures, and their success proves that education plus effort truly pays off.

Your Next Step

If these stories resonate with you, explore OBC’s programs like HVAC/R, Electrical Applications, Truck Driver Training, Practical Nursing and LPN to RN. Find a path that matches your interests and start building the career you want.

Contact us today to learn more about our trade programs.