Scottville woman receives Michigan Works! Impact Award.

Tina Holey

Scottville woman receives Michigan Works! Impact Award.

LANSING — Tina Holey of Scottville was the recent recipient of a Michigan Works! Impact Award. Holey was born with a rare genetic disorder that affected the development of her facial structure and made it difficult to eat, drink and breathe. 

“I always felt discriminated against as a child,” Holey said in an interview with Michigan Works! “But I never let that hold me back.”

Tina Holey, holding award, along with her mother, Tina (right), with Sen. VanderWall, second from left.

In her early 20s and after nearly 200 surgeries, Holey said she knew she was ready to transition off disability and find a full time job. She also knew she needed training to achieve her career goal of becoming a commercial truck driver.

“I knew I could do more than people thought I could,” she said. “I’ve been wanting to work since I was 13-years-old.”

Holey came to the Michigan Works! Service Center in Ludington and met with career development specialist Shayla Savich who enrolled Holey in the Out-of-School Youth program. 

“Shayla was awesome,” Holey said. “She kept pushing me to accomplish my goals.”

Today, Holey works as a full-time truck driver and hopes someday to own her own business.

Sen. Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington) recently presented the Michigan Works! Impact Award to Holey, and Katelyn Stuckey of Lake City, during a special ceremony. 

“It was a privilege to honor these two young women for their commitment to excellence and the courage to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles,” said VanderWall. “They are an inspiration to all of us.”

“Tina and Katelyn have shown grit in their relentless pursuit of their goals,” VanderWall said. “I have no doubt they will succeed at whatever they put their mind to.”