The BLM Alaska State Facilities/Property Manager says it best:  “Job Corps students strive to do the very best they can.”

And Manager Alan Lorimer he should know because has been overseeing and encouraging  Job Corps students’ work at BLM work sites for a very long time.

What has been the best aspect of the Job Corps/ BLM partnership?  Lorimer responds that his large covered job site has given students a whole new perspective.   They know what they need to do and although this may be the first time on a job site, they are held accountable  for their finished work.  Their instructors are constantly checking their work and anything that isn’t 100% spot on is redone.

Students agree that this project has taught them well.  Students say that “book learning isn’t the real thing.”  But hands on work is the training they have come to expect when they applied for the Job Corps program.

Lorimer says that many of the students are shy at first.  But after a while, they make a point of personally thanking him for this experience.  Sometimes they share some of their life stories with Lorimer’s team, during down times.  The facilities manager said, “This connection has made working with them a joy!”

And the honor doesn’t stop when the students leave.  Mr. Lorimer explained that he is honored to be both a reference and referral for the hard working Job Corps construction students.  Their work ethic has been displayed over and over along with quality and pride of workmanship.

Alaska Job Corps Work Based Learning Specialist Luanne Cross is also proud of this valuable connection.  “It has been so good for our students.  BLM has worked with us in every way.”

Lorimer adds, “ I hope the BLM and Job Corps will continue this relationship.  We are firm believers in providing youth with many life skills and hands on work experience.  We believe that this is the best way to honor them and all those who have gone before them.” Alaska Job Corps is operated by Chugach Government Solutions as part of their educational effort to provide training, success and safety to young adults in the National Job Corps program.

(photo credits A. Lorimer)