On his final day at Northlands Job Corps Academy, Shane Pytka took a moment to reflect on how far he’s come since he first joined the program in Loring, Maine a year ago, before coming to Northlands in September 2010.

“I studied Auto Mechanics at Loring for six months, got certified and was the shop foreman when I left,” Shane said. “I got acquainted with some basic welding during that program, and I really enjoyed it. It came quickly to me. And I learned that welders can make a lot of money!”

Shane then transferred to Northlands to study welding to prepare him for a secure career. While at Northlands, he discovered more than a solid education. He met his future wife who was studying health occupations. They are expecting a child together.

“I’m going to Barton, Vermont to live with her and continue my education,” Shane said. “I’ll also be interviewing for work, and have a couple good leads.”

In fact, Shane says he’s very well prepared for the interview process, having received comprehensive job-search training at Northlands.

“I aced my interview training. I’m very confident I’ll be able to make everything work out,” he said.

One option Shane is considering is working for General Dynamics Electric Boat in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. “With my training here at Northlands I can start at $15.50 an hour,” he said.

As he prepared to head to Barton, Shane encouraged others to look at the Job Corps program.

“You get a free education and can learn valuable skills,” he said. “I’m trying to get my little brother to come here. It’s a great opportunity.”

Ian McGaughey