That is particular program was funded by the US government with requirements to hire former military and disadvantaged people. These were people who would have otherwise slipped through the cracks.
It's a real shame. There are tons of motivated, talented people entering the workforce who would be great with a little professional training and support. Boeing had a pilot program a while back where they did intense training with new hires early in their career. That program produced really great team members - any of whom I'd fight to have on my team. I hope others start similar programs.
It drives me nuts that businesses are unwilling to invest in the next generation of workers. There is a serious lack of traing and mentorship. Then, without an ounce of irony, management will complain about the quality of cost of candidates.
This lady probably didn't get a promotion because she has the kind of personal disposition that would cause her to sue for not getting a promotion. Who wouldn't just go get a different, better job elsewhere?
I love this quote about the breakdown of obligations in America. It's not a direction I want to go, but it does seem to be the direction we are headed:
In America, everyone does whatever they want, society did break down, it’s terrible, and it’s great! You only look out for number one, scream at whoever disagrees with you, there are no bees because they all died, and if you need surgery you just beg for money on the internet. It's the perfect system!
I mean, they tried to enshrine what they believed to be inherent into law. It is literally the opening of the declaration of independence:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
It is a philosophical debate that continues to this day. But most philophies think there are some obligations somewhere. There's even a whole Tav show dedicated to the discussion (the Good Place).
I have neuropathic pain and acupuncture has helped manage it so I can stay away from these kinds of medicine. Might be worth giving a shot (if nothing else you get a nap, which I always welcome).
Near term: you may be able to find some temp administration n or even light tech work over the summer. Pays not great, but better than zero.
Resumes: resumes are a numbers game, like 500+. It sucks. You may be able to up your odds by running your resume and the job posting through AI (like Gemini or copilot) to ensure a more custom application.
Networking: I often refer former colleagues to others for roles or informational interviews. Considered reaching out to an old coworker or two to see if they have heard of anything. There are also networking groups (city chamber, industry, etc.) that could help to extend your reach.
Slight variations (dog's collar, I support my kids weird collections), but based on this list, I'd say I'm a successful 40-something.