NAME: Simon Caskey

HOMETOWN: Philadelphia, PA

Meet Simon, a recent graduate of Grinnell College with a degree in sociology. Simon is a fellow in the Brooklyn, NY office where he is focusing on helping individuals with Math Pre-HSE preparation and overcoming career shocks. Simon comes to America Works with a history of social service experience. Simon is especially interested in helping adult learners who may be “making up for lost time.” Simon’s research is focused on helping individuals navigate career shocks and “hit the ground running” post career changes. Simon works with clients to fight fear paralysis and hopelessness to find meaningful employment.

SIMON’S FAVORITE MOVIE

The Big Short

SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT SIMON

He can whistle while smiling!

A BOOK THAT HAD AN IMPACT ON SIMON

Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell

Simon notes it’s been especially impactful working during the COVID era where his experiences and the job market look so different post-pandemic. Simon focuses on developing webinars that aid in the recovery from adversity and finding strength in communities, something especially relevant post-COVID-19. A highlight for Simon has been working directly with clients and watching them engage with the material with passion and commitment to moving forward.

ON SIMON’S NYC BUCKET LIST

Full day tour of NYC food locations

Now that you’ve met some of our Work First Fellows, keep up with them! Follow Work First on Twitter and Facebook to support our work connecting people with jobs and researching innovative strategies to combat poverty.