Congratulations to Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center (CDPJCC) Alumni, Robert “Alec” Lopez, and CDPJCC Property Supervisor, Mrs. Melissa Murphy! The duo, comprised of 1 staff member and 1 student, attained their bachelor’s degree’s from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) during their virtual commencement ceremonies held on Friday, December 4, 2020.
Alumni, Robert Lopez originally from Pittsburg, PA joined Carl D Perkins Job Corps Center to study Security and Protective Services in June of 2015. Lopez was struggling to acquire a full time position with a livable wage. Lopez has always yearned to help people, and aspired to work as a police officer, correctional officer, or in probation and parole since childhood. Lopez tried pursuing a CNA program, but due to lack of interest, he withdrew. That’s when his life changed, Lopez found the Security and Protective Services training at Perkins job corps while searching employment online.
At CDPJCC, Lopez completed the Security and Protective Services training, obtained multiple certifications and earned an associates degree in criminal justice from local partner, Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC). Upon graduation from CDPJCC in May of 2018, Lopez continued to further his education at EKU (Eastern KY University), serving as student orientation leader, and member of Tau Sigma Honor Society while attaining a double major bachelor of science degree, majoring in criminal justice and police studies.
“Before attending CDPJCC and completing the security program, I never thought about furthering my education, let alone attending college to earn a degree! The encouragement I received from the Perkins staff showed me I could do things, I had never even thought of.” exclaims Lopez. Lopez plans to remain in Richmond, KY and is pursuing opportunities to serve on a task force to combat human trafficking.
Lopez attributes his educational success to the training he received at CDPJCC stating “If you apply the skills job corps teaches you, not just in class or work, but in life, you will know what it means to succeed!”
Lopez, remains in Richmond, KY considering opportunities to increase and utilize his education in the Homeland Security field.

Property Supervisor, Mrs. Murphy began her career at CDPJCC as a temporary employee through Manpower staffing agency 14 years ago, working in the finance department. Her work ethic led her into a full time position as a clerk in the student records department, and since 2009 she has been a top performing Property Specialist. She repeatedly earns 100% on her property audits, and has been recognized by HYS (Horizon’s Youth Service’s ) contractors for having the least amount of property missing. Mrs. Murphy attained her bachelors of science while working full time at CDPJCC and managing a small business. She was recognized by Eastern Kentucky University as a first generation graduate. Mrs. Murphy took advantage of the tuition reimbursement program offered at Job Corps to encourage staff to continue to seek higher education, and advancement. A magnificent benefit of working for the job corps community.
Mrs. Melissa Murphy’s advice to everyone “YOU ARE WORTH ALL THE HARD WORK!”
Congratulations to our graduates! #Careers begin here