A Live Better U Story: How Education Benefits Can Lead to Career Development & Growth

When Thomas Williford looks back on his journey—from dropping out of high school to becoming a father, getting hired as a Walmart associate, and going back to school as an adult—one thing stands out: perseverance. His story is one of redemption, determination, and the power of opportunity made possible through Walmart’s Live Better U program and their collaboration with Workforce Edge.

What inspired you to go back to school and pursue your education? How did your employer’s education benefits make it possible?

“At 18, I made a decision that I would come to regret deeply: I dropped out of high school. At the time, I was facing hardships that made it seem like the only choice, but what felt like a way out quickly turned into a weight I carried for years. It wasn’t just the lost opportunities; it was the feeling that I had given up on myself too soon,” Thomas shared.

Life, however, had more in store for him. In 2021, Thomas was diagnosed with bone cancer, a life-altering experience that made him rethink everything. “It reminded me of how short and fragile life is, and it made me determined to fight harder for a better future,” he said. That same year, he also became a husband and father. “Suddenly, it wasn’t just about me anymore—it was about being the kind of man my wife and children could depend on.”

When he joined Walmart at age 24, Thomas found not only a career but a community that believed in him. “Walmart gave me more than just a job; it gave me a future. And through Walmart, I discovered something that would change my life forever: the Live Better U program.”

“For years, I thought the door to finishing my education had closed for good. But Live Better U opened it back up.” 
- Thomas Williford

What was your experience balancing work, school, and personal life? How did Walmart and Workforce Edge support you through that?

Balancing a full-time career, raising a young family, and going back to school wasn’t easy, but Thomas says the support made all the difference. The strong culture of learning in his workplace encouraged him to take the next step. Exploring all the courses and programs available through LBU and Workforce Edge was overwhelming, but with the help of the success coaching team, Thomas figured out how to use work education benefits and more easily navigate the process.

“To go from being a high school dropout, to a cancer survivor, to a husband and father of three, and now a college student at a respected business school — it’s a journey I never thought I would take, but one I’m incredibly proud of,” he said.

He credits Walmart, Live Better U, and Workforce Edge with providing the flexibility and encouragement he needed. “I’m deeply grateful for this second chance. This program gave me more than an education—it gave me hope, direction, and a future I once thought was out of reach.”

What has this opportunity meant for your professional development and career growth? Your personal growth?

Since joining Live Better U and signing up for courses through the Workforce Edge platform, Thomas’s educational journey has accelerated.

“In 2024, I earned my high school diploma using my education benefit. That moment was so much bigger than a graduation...it was about redemption,” he said. Most recently, Thomas was accepted into the Sam Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas, where he is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree (BSBA) in Supply Chain Management.

The Live Better U experience has transformed him in every way. “Personally, I’ve regained my confidence and a sense of pride I thought I’d lost forever. Professionally, I’ve already been able to apply what I’ve learned through to my role at Walmart. It’s made me more strategic, more resilient, and more prepared for the future.”

What advice do you have for someone who’s thinking about pursuing education but doesn’t know where to begin?

Thomas knows that taking the first step can feel overwhelming, especially for those who have faced setbacks or self-doubt. 

“If there’s one thing my story shows, it’s that your past doesn’t define you—your perseverance does,” he said. “I’ve faced mistakes, setbacks, and struggles, but through hard work, faith, and determination, I’ve been able to build something better. And now, I know the best part of my story is still ahead.”

A second chance at a brighter future

Thomas’s story is a testament to the life-changing power of education and the ripple effect it can have on families, communities, and careers.

“Live Better U gave me more than an education,” he said. “It gave me hope and a second chance to become the person I always wanted to be.”
- Thomas Williford

For working adults like Thomas, programs like Walmart’s Live Better U, supported by Workforce Edge, continue to redefine what’s possible—one degree, one certificate, one story at a time.