Alaska Job Corps Center Spring 2017 Graduation

Students of all trades journey into the next chapter of their careers

Palmer, Alaska—Some came from far away and some came from nearby. Either way, 63 students finished their career training at the Alaska Job Corps Center in Palmer and graduated on Friday, Feb. 24. From Akiachak to Arizona, and from Seward to Scammon Bay, these students had much to be proud of on this very special day. Community leaders, friends, family, alumni, colleagues, employers and staff watched these students as they were honored one by one and received their diplomas.

The Accounting Services graduates with instructor and Mayor of Palmer Edna Devries.

Graduation for these students was the culmination of months or years of training at Alaska Job Corps. They trained in several trades, including accounting services, building construction technology, carpentry, culinary arts, electrical, nurse assistant, office administration, security and protective services, and water treatment. Some also worked to get their high school diplomas or GEDs.

Many of the students are already employed. Places of employment include Southcentral Foundation, the Alaska Native Medical Center, Raven Electric, NANA Management Services, Providence Extended Care and the Alaska Native Heritage Center.

The Colony High School JROTC Color Guard presented the colors while the national anthem was sung by Brittney Werschey, an Alaska Job Corps student.

Malyn Smith, center director, welcomed the crowd by saying how proud she is of these students as they journey on to the next chapter of their careers and how committed they have been to their own growth and development. Keynote speaker, Ron Young, finance and administration director, gave an encouraging speech about embracing change in your life. Rose Andrews, a graduate in both the nurse assistant program and office administration, offered an inspiring student speech about the bright futures of these graduates. Roger Gossett, social development manager, emceed the event and closed the ceremony with the Dr. Seuss story “Oh, the Places You’ll Go.”

Mark Cruthers with his carpentry graduate.

Several of the graduating students lauded their time at the Job Corps Center. Bob Angaiak from Tununak was in the building construction technology program and had this to say about his career training: “I learned so much from my instructors. I felt like I could go to them for anything—whenever I needed help with my training or personally.” Angaiak is now employed by American Fast Freight.

Another student, Jasmin Bujak from Palmer, studied to be a nurse assistant. She said that attending Alaska Job Corps was the best decision she had ever made. “It really has helped me get my foot in the door in my career,” said Bujak. She is employed by Palmer Pioneer Home.

The Alaska Job Corps Center is committed to providing the highest quality programs for young adults by offering instructions in academics, trades and life skills through innovative methods that respond to the unique individual and group needs of today’s youth.

 Learn more about the Alaska Job Corps Center at http://alaska.jobcorps.gov.