Overland Park man proves it's never too late to follow your passion

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - The unemployment line is far stretch from our comfort zone.  Now, try standing in it when you're in your mid-50's.  Rob Munyan faced the world of unemployment when his company of 26 years laid him off because of downsizing.

Munyan's entire career was spent with the same company, and at the age of 55, he had no plans of leaving.

"They downsized and one of the jobs eliminated was mine," Munyan said, "and I didn't really have plans of changing careers until that happened."

Downsized at 55, Rob has all the credentials - a bachelors degree, an MBA and a desire for a change, knowing that the insurance industry wasn't his passion anymore.

In this economic climate Workforce Partnership says downsizing can actually turn into opportunities regardless or age. 

Scott Anglemyer, Executive Director for Workforce Partnership, says "that's when you see a lot of small businesses start to flourish when people pursue their passion."

When it came time to pursue Rob's passion, nursing was it.  With eighth children, he's spent more than his fair share inside hospitals and always admired nurses.

Rob signed up for an accelerated nursing program at MidAmerica Nazarene College.  Professors welcome his age and wisdom.

"He brought a maturity, calming influence to the other students," professor Gwen Warner said.

Rob just finished the nursing program and is currently looking for a job.  With the help of Workforce Partnership, Rob was able to get some guidance and small grant to pay for a part of nursing school.