When carpentry instructor Windell Walker saw an opportunity to nominate a female for a non-traditional occupational trade award, New Haven Job Corps Student Michelle Johnson was an easy choice.  The Office of Job Corps established the Better Occupational Opportunities for Tradeswomen  (B.O.O.T.) Award to recognize a female student or graduate who shows strength, courage, aptitude, and commitment to launching a career in a non-traditional field, and who will represent that trade in a way that encourages other young women to pursue a similar path.   “She is a great student, and has a thirst for knowledge as it relates to carpentry”, said Mr. Walker.    Michelle agrees, “Coming to the New Haven Job Corps, and enrolling in carpentry helps me prepare for the future”.  Just because it’s male dominated doesn’t mean women can’t excel.  I am here to let others know that you do not have to be an expert in the field of carpentry.  At Job Corps, you will get all the training you need in order to excel in the trade.”

 A committee of five U.S. Department of Labor staff reviewed the applications. Michelle Johnson, a carpentry student at New Haven Job Corps Center, was selected as the first B.O.O.T. Award recipient, based on the following criteria:

• Motivation and self-direction
• Passion for the trade and commitment to following a nontraditional career path
• Commitment to giving back to the community
• Exceeding expectations of self and others

 Ms. Johnson, a young mother, has excelled in her trade, became shop steward, earned the respect of her peers, exhibited poise and self-confidence, and demonstrated the skills and abilities necessary to succeed in her chosen field. She recently took the pre-apprenticeship test with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, and earned a position with a local construction company.  “I love working with my hands”, stated Michelle. “I love the roughness and toughness involved, and I love the dedication to the trade.  Having this trade as my career choice will enable me to show other females who are interested in carpentry that they too, can achieve it.  This isn’t just a job, this is a career, and I am focused.” 

 Ms. Johnson will received an upgraded carpentry tool set and $500 cash prize, along with the hand-carved boot to recognize her outstanding achievement. In consultation with the Boston Regional Office, the National Director will present the award to her during a public forum. 

After the presentation in Washington, D.C., Congreswoman Rosa Delauro Congratulated Ms. Johnson along with Barbara Sandstrom, Center Director for the New Haven Job Corps Center on her achievement.

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro congratulates New Haven Job Corps Student Michelle Johson and Barbara Sandstrom, Center Director