Since March, essential workers have shined while many other occupations, including some that are considered more prestigious, were forced to remain at home. That is earning positions like grocery store stockers or fast-food workers recognition from the general public, and job recruiters. Executive Director for the Bay Area Workforce Development Board, Jim Golembeski, says that work ethic counts right now as much as credentials.

Golembeski says his organization is trying to help transition workers from hard-hit industries, including banquet and convention halls or entertainment venues, to those that are weathering the COVID-19 pandemic better. He says essential workers looking to try out a new vocation are in a great position to find higher-paying opportunities as well.