Matthew Lopez was the Valley Courier Editor’s pick for a front page article. The article described Lopez’s career at Collbran Job Corps and how his training has prepared him for the local economy as he returns to his hometown of Alamosa.

     Lopez graduated from Job Corps in June where he successfully completed the cement mason pre-apprenticeship course. He also earned the highest leadership award at the center, a gold coat, and a place in Collbran Job Corps’ Hall of Fame.

     Along with leadership positions in his dormitory, vocation, and peer counseling,  Lopez volunteered on Special Olympics, Country Jam, Make-A-Difference-Day and community clean-up efforts.

     Lopez anticipates finding work in his trade or in the broader construction field.