Taking tests was never Ed’s strong suit. As long as he could remember, he excelled in hands-on tasks. So when his company asked him to take a class through Chemeketa's Customized Training department, pass a test and receive a certification to expand the skills he could bring to the company, Ed was reluctant.

“Our company’s owner said the DEQ Septic Installer Certification would help diversify our business,” said Ed. “So I took a chance and enrolled in the class.”

During class, much of the technical and field operations material made sense. But the test was a different story.

“Not only did I not pass the test, I had to share with my boss that I have a learning disability, “ Ed said. “I was embarrassed.”

To Ed’s relief, his boss reached out to Chemeketa and learned the college could accommodate his accessibility request and proctor the test.

Ed was relieved he got a second chance, but that relief turned into nerves once the college went into lockdown due to COVID.  

“I wondered if I ever would be able to take or pass this test,” said Ed. “Our company needed this line of work to help keep us employed, especially during COVID.” 

Despite the challenges, Chemeketa found a way to proctor Ed’s exam.