Graduates from several Kentucky Job Corps centers, in a joint graduation ceremony at the state capitol, shared their thoughts about their training.

Andrew Gross, an advanced welding student, was very excited about his future.

“It’s just a really great opportunity. Because they [Job Corps] take guys that have nothing. You’re living on the streets, basically homeless. And, they get students their high school diploma, their driver’s license, and a trade. And not just any trade, it’s a lucrative trade; something that we need in the job market.”

Kayla Goodman wants to be a nurse. “It’s a good place to get your life together.”

Jordan Hunt graduated with his CNA certification.

“It was worth nine months of my life—to get my life on track. It was worth it!” 

David Stammer earned his heavy equipment operator certification. “I feel like I can be more successful than I was. I can go off and create a better future for my children and my wife.”

And, student graduation speaker Patrick McElvain said Job Corps gave him the chance to succeed. “I need an opportunity and I got it at Job Corps. And, I’m proud to say now that I have two jobs. I have two cars. I have my own apartment, and I pay my own bills—all of them a week early.”