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In today’s challenging economic climate, finding a job can be daunting, especially for those with barriers such as limited experience or a criminal record. However, companies like Lane Staffing, led by the dynamic Carla Lane, are making significant strides in helping individuals secure employment and rebuild their lives. As a full-service staffing company, Lane Staffing has been connecting people with opportunities since 2007, offering roles across various industries, from day labor to professional careers. Through targeted initiatives and a commitment to the community, Lane Staffing is not just filling jobs—they’re changing lives. Bayou Beat caught up with Carla Lane to gain more insight into this career-building opportunity.

BB: Is this program offered directly by your company, or is it through a partnership with a third party? 

CL: I’m a full-service staffing company. I have clients across the board, everything from day laborers to medical professionals, accountants, and engineers. This particular client is, responsible for the paratransit system in Houston. They’ve been my client since about 2010.

BB: What exactly is Paratransit?

CL: Paratransit is a public transportation service for disabled and elderly people who need extra assistance moving around the city and don’t use traditional public transportation. All over the city of Houston, people call Metro and they schedule services. They’re opening a lot of new routes and need drivers quickly.

BB: So, you’re saying that even if I’ve only worked in retail or fast food with no prior driving experience, I can still walk in and land a driving job?

CL: So you have to be 21. You have to have a valid driver’s license, and you need to have had that driver’s license for at least 3 years with a good driving record. So no gaps, no breaks, or suspension. You can’t have a lot of tickets, DWIs, or DUIs. You have to pass the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical and the vision test. It’s a very customer service-oriented position. People who have worked in a hospital setting, daycare, or maybe you are a natural caregiver who has dealt with the elderly a lot are a good fit. Not saying if you haven’t done that, you won’t be a fit, but it does take a certain type of compassion.

BB: Is there a uniform required for training?

CL: A uniform is not required for training but once you are hired they will provide a uniform for employees. The company will tell them what they need to wear during training. But at Lane Staffing if someone needs help we are here to help with that too. We are full service and understand that whatever we need to do to get our community to work, that’s what Lane Staffing is going to do. That’s the difference between us and the other staffing companies.

 

BB: What does the training process look like?

CL: The interview process starts after you receive the initial call in about 7 days because you have to pass the DOT physical, the background check, and the screening of your Motor Vehicle Record. From there, you’re scheduled for the next available class and will have paid weekly classes for six weeks. During your classes, you will receive on-the-road training and will have to pass a driving test. you will also learn how to strap in wheelchairs because that’s a big component of using the lift. Depending on how quickly you progress, it can be three to four weeks before you finish the training program. You will then be released as an employee of Lane Staffing and will become an employee of the Paratransit company. You will then receive a company vehicle and will be insured by them.

BB: If I fail the test or a portion of it, can I come back and continue from where I left off, or would I have to start the entire class over?

CL: That is a case-by-case basis, and it depends on once you are in the training class, why did you fail? What happened?  This job requires you to drive a vehicle with people who may be disabled, elderly, or both. We have to have really good drivers. People’s safety is a priority. Customer service is a priority. So there is not a lot of wiggle room for people who are not catching on because it’s a matter of safety.

BB: After you become an employee can you request certain shifts?

CL: The shifts vary, and we can’t tell you if you will work from 8 am to 5 pm or from 6 pm to 10 pm. When you first come in, you will be entry-level compared to those who’ve worked there for 20 years. There are a lot of drivers, and you have to bid for shifts. It really depends on where you fall and what shifts you’re given, it’s imperative that you have open availability.

BB: If someone has had a recent vehicle accident or ticket within the last 6 months should they wait before applying?

CL: I would tell them to go ahead and apply because it depends on how it shows up on their Motor Vehicle Record.

BB: Given that marijuana is legal in many places, will drug testing still be required for participants?

CL: They will be testing because this is a DOT position. But outside of this Paratransit position Lane Staffing is always hiring drivers. If you want a job, then do what you need to do and detox. Get your system clean and come back to Lane Staffing. I will find something for you.

BB: What advice would you offer to individuals with one or more felonies trying to re-enter the workforce?

CL: I have a special place in my heart because there are people I care deeply about who have felonies. And so we have a list that we keep of employers who, hire people with felonies. They can call Lane Staffing and our front desk will give them a list. If you have no work history or skills, there is a lot of workforce development, going on to combat recidivism. Trucking is a great industry. You can make a lot of money, and it is felon-friendly. The city of Houston has “banned the box” and what that means is there’s no longer a box on the application— when you apply directly with the city of Houston— that asks if you have ever been convicted of a felon. If you have the skills, you have a great shot at being hired.

BB: Are there any other projects that Lane Staffing is working on that our readers should know about?

CL: Lane Staffing is always hiring. We are currently hiring laborers, surveyors, financial analysts, health educators, yard work, security, and much more. Every day we open, Monday through Friday, we have clients seeking amazing people to do amazing work.

For more information visit www.lanestaff.com