Last month, 12 young men from Oakridge Community Facility celebrated their graduation from the Manufacturing Academy (MA), a 12-week pre-apprenticeship for Juvenile Rehabilitation (JR) youth.
In partnership with Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee, Pac-Mountain Workforce Development Council and ResCare, the MA provides young men with the opportunity to earn seven certifications and prepares them for entry-level positions in the manufacturing industry.
With guidance from some of the best instructors in the industry, these youths were able to earn dual college and high school credits and gain soft/technical skills in applied math, assembly, machining, blueprint drafting and reading, welding and much more. Part of their learning even included CPR training and bringing meals to people experiencing homelessness. Several youths have plans to become machinists as they embark on their careers.
“…it gave me the opportunity to change my lifestyle for the better – it made me realize that I can do whatever I put my mind to.” – Andy, MA graduate
Please join us in celebrating the significant milestone these young adults have reached and give a hand to the JR staff who helped make this program possible.