Before Job Corps, Chaw Sien was in high school at the Washington Magnet School in St. Paul, Minnesota. Not exactly sure what to do after high school, a teacher told her about the Hubert H. Humphrey Job Corps in St. Paul. Chaw was intrigued by the idea. She spoke with an admissions counselor and toured the campus. She was sold and decided to enroll!

Because Chaw had already gotten her high school diploma, she was able to immediately begin the painting program, a trade she’s always found interesting. Chaw also developed good relationships with her classmates.

“Chaw worked well with other students,” says instructor John Kaiser, “and had the respect of all students and instructor.”

Chaw completed the painting program, also known as the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. She received a variety of certifications at the Finishing Trades Institute of the Upper Midwest, certifications that are difficult to complete, but once obtained, make getting a good job really easy. Some of the certifications she received include forklift, aerial lift, scissor lift, scaffold, OSHA 30, and OSHA 10.

Instructor Braggs John added, “Chaw was an excellent student in the painting trade. She was always on time, always worked hard, and learned her trade well. Chaw is a great example of how a student that applies himself/herself can have great outcomes.”

While 2020 isn’t going the way anyone expected, Chaw was able to land a job at Artistic Finishes where she is a hand stain applicator. Chaw also works in the spray booth. She says there are two other painting grads that also work there with her which has made the transition a lot smoother.

Chaw spoke highly of her instructor John Kaiser, “He taught me everything about the painting trade and prepared me for a great painting career. It’s because of him that I’m so comfortable in this job setting.”

Chaw speaks passionately about her life after Job Corps, “Life is better now that I’m working. I’m excited that I can see a future for myself, and I’m happy to be in a job I love.”