Ali Marzban:College Educated, Highly Skilled and Out of Work.

Ali Marzban is a civil engineer with a master’s degree. Three years ago he was laid off after his company spiraled downward during the recession and he has been unemployed ever since.

“It is difficult for myself and my family,” said Marzban. “It is an overburden and a hardship.”

Marzban’s unemployment benefits stopped in October of 2012. He has been making ends meet with the help of friends, family, and a loan.

However, he has not given up. Everyday he spends time at the One – Stop Service and Training Center in Williamsville. The facility helps over 600 people a day in their job search.

“We have workshops, we have career counselors that can help people re-word and update their resumes so we are capable of helping people remarket themselves for that new job ,” sad Lavon Stephens, Administrative Director, Workforce Development Consortium.

Ironically, Marzan says his skills have kept him from getting job offers. Employers tell him he’s overqualified, but he will never lose hope and encourages those who are unemployed or who will lose their jobs in the future to do the same.

“It is very hard in the beginning. Emotionally it is like you are going to lose all hope. But after a few days or months, you are going to stand up again on your feet and search for that new job.

There are two One – Stop Service Centers in the area. (716) 856-5627

Buffalo Employment and Training Center77 Goodell StreetBuffalo, NY 14203

ECC Employment and Training CenterGleasner Hall, Room 1666205 Main StreetWilliamsville, New York 14221

source WKBW