Whitney Young Job Corps Cement grad takes his training to the next level by enrolling in the Cement Advance training program at the Gary Job Corps Center in Texas. He started in April and plans to complete in August and already has two career opportunities in the cement industry. “It feels good to have options,” Wallace said.

On August 7, 2017 Wallace arrived to the Whitney Young Job Corps Center to make a better life for himself. He quickly earned his Penn Foster high school diploma and 6 certifications while completing his cement technical trade. In 8 months Wallace received the following certifications: OHSA 30, Scaffolding, Respiratory, Lead Paint, Power Tools, and Skin Protection. While in the cement trade Wallace had the opportunity to become a shop foreman and a dorm leader. As the shop foreman Wallace was in charge of leading the team to work together and inspiring his team mates to stay on task. Giving Wallace the unique experience of being a leader and influencing others at a very young age. Wallace loved the leadership experience and looks forward to becoming a boss one day. According to Wallace’s cement instructor, Darryel Gaines, “Anthony was a self-driven student and naturally good with people. He also has the x-factor to succeed in life. Our cement program won trade of the month in April 2018 due to Anthony’s leadership”.

On April 17, 2018 Wallace departed for the Gary Job Corps Center Cement Advance Training program in San Marcus, TX. When asked what is different regarding advance training, Wallace said, “we move faster, sharpen up our skills more, it’s hot, and every day we lay cement”. Wallace has only been in Advance Training for a month, and enjoys the knowledge he is receiving. Wallace is very happy he made the right decision to join Whitney Young Job Corps and so is his mother.