Volume 2, Issue 1 Job Corps Civilian January 2015 Conservation Center Courier

USDA Deputy Under Secretary Butch Blazer and Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell Celebrate Job Corps’ 50th Anniversary Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office

In an historic effort to wipe out and celebrate the Job Corps the root causes of poverty, the program. U.S. Congress passed the Eco- Since the activation of the first nomic Opportunity Act, which Civilian Conservation Center-- created the Job Corps program, Lyndon B. Johnson--on February on August 20, 1964. 1, 1965, Forest Service Job On September 17, 2014, USDA Corps Centers have offered Deputy Under Secretary Arthur comprehensive residential, aca- “Butch” Blazer, U.S. Forest Ser- demic, and vocational training vice Chief Tom Tidwell, Forest to the nation’s most under- Service Job Corps National Di- served youth. rector Tina Terrell, USDA Chief Collbran, Harpers Ferry, of Staff for Natural Resources Schenck, and Timber Lake Job and Environment Meryl Harrell Corps students participated in and Job Corps Civilian Conser- skills training presentations on vation Center students from the Whitten Patio. Collbran Job across the country gathered Corps students demonstrated together in the USDA Whitten Davidson River Initial Attack crew member Luis Duran greets Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell at the Job the skills used to design and Corps 50th Anniversary Celebration on the patio of the Jamie L. Whitten Building, Washington, D.C. on Building to mark this milestone September 17, 2014. Photo courtesy of USDA. (continued on page 3)

From the Desk of the National Office Tina J. Terrell, National Director, Job Corps National Office

Last year was a remarkable year public lands, and for the Job Corps Civilian Con- employee engage- servation Centers. We em- ment by training barked in January 2014 with and mentoring young people. much hope, opportunity, and For the first goal, the Job Corps tradition. program worked with the Na- I gave a number of goals to cen- tional Forest System to cele- ter directors in the beginning of brate the 50th anniversary of the year, and Job Corps leaders three major laws that have im- worked with their staffs and pacted the agency, young peo- students to exceed my goals ple, and the land. and expectations. These three laws were the Eco- My goals focused on three are- nomic Opportunity Act of 1964 as: celebration of three anniver- (which created the Job Corps sary events, students working to Job Corps National Director Tina Terrell presents the Honorable Hal Rogers with an engraved plaque program); the Wilderness Act of improve communities and their designed by Collbran Job Corps. Photo courtesy of Pine Knot Jobs Corps (continued on page 2)

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From the Desk of the National Office (continued from page 1) Tina J. Terrell, National Director, Job Corps National Office

1964 which created wild places “fire militia” was involved from for all of us to enjoy; and the the very beginning of fire sea- Civil Rights Act of 1964 which son. In 2014 Job Corps stu- codified in law that all of us dents on fire crews worked have an opportunity to be who 160,327 hours on fire assign- ments and treated 57,276 Our Job Corps Civilian acres in the wildland urban interface. These numbers ex- Conservation Centers ceeded the number of hours would not be what they worked on fire assignments in are without a dedicat- 2013 by 10%. Students working ed and supported staff. on fire assignments in the Thanks to each of you wildland urban interface re- duced hazardous fuels around for showing young peo- homes, communities, and infra- ple the way to be suc- structure like utilities; so when cessful. a fire occurs in an area, the fire Terrell offers advice to Pine Ridge Business Administration student Desiree Levering while touring the danger is reduced with less Center on July 17, 2014. Photo courtesy of Don Richards. —Tina Terrell vegetation to burn. National Director Even though many articles in the Job Corps Courier focus on students, there are a couple of we are and pursue our dreams articles that focus on staff. In without discrimination. More 2014, staff at our Job Corps information is provided in the Civilian Conservation Centers Job Corps Courier regarding the went above and beyond their 50th anniversary celebration duties to mentor students, de- the Job Corps National Office velop innovative and creative held in Washington, D.C. on programs for helping students September 17th in the Depart- find jobs, or organized work- ment of Agriculture Whitten shops to teach students how to Building (Whitten Patio). Check empower themselves and de- It Out!!!!!!!!!! velop goals for success. In 2014, Job Corps students Each and every day, staff come from the 28 Job Corps Civilian to work with a goal to make a Tina Terrell deep in discussion with Pine Ridge Job Corps Center Warehouse Manager Dean Hall and Conservation Centers again Works Program Office David Jones. Terrell toured the Center on July 17,2014. Photo courtesy of Don young person’s life better than showed their remarkable skills, Richards. what that person may be ad- abilities, and knowledge to dressing. Staff opens a book, build houses for low income through the Public Lands Corps The Job Corps program just cele- type into a computer, walk th families; refurbish low-water and to develop natural re- brated its 50 anniversary last around a classroom, talk to a crossings on a wildlife refuge; sources training programs for year. The success of the pro- young person, or pick up a tool paint buildings; clean open Job Corps students (wilderness gram has been and will continue and provide guidance and direc- spaces by removing trash; work ethics, waders in the waters/ to be the students. We have tion to students to help them on fire crews to clear vegetation aquatic education, trails man- impacted many, many lives, and make something of themselves. around homes, parks and com- agement, wood bridge enhance- we will continue to impact lives Our Job Corps Civilian Conser- munities; build and install infor- ment/refurbishment). in a positive way. Success is not vation Centers would not be a destination, but a journey and mation kiosks; and restore an Regarding Public Lands Corps, what they are without a dedicat- we will continue the journey to all-terrain vehicle trail. we are off to a great start as two ed and supportive staff. Thanks be successful as managers, as students have already been I continue to be proud of the to each of you for showing leaders, and as people. work our students complete day young people the way to be converted using the hiring au- after day, while learning a new successful. thority provided in the Public I believe in the Job Corps pro- craft and working to make their Lands Corps legislation. In gram, I believe in our students, I As we progress in 2015, my lives better and to find a career. 2015, I envision eight (8) more believe in our staff, and I look goals for this year are to expand Job Corps students should be forward to a successful and Fire is the biggest program in avenues for Job Corps students hired into positions on a district, remarkable year. the agency and our Job Corps to be hired in the Forest Service forest, or Regional Office.

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USDA Deputy Under Secretary Butch Blazer and Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell Celebrate Job Corps’ 50th Anniversary (continued from page 1) Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office construct a 50th anniversary Hands On Preservation Experi- wilderness scale and over 500 ence (HOPE) crew. Harpers Ferry wilderness award plaques. students attracted many guests Collbran students, who brought to their table by sharing exciting along an impressive display of footage from showing their work produce harvested from their restoring the historic Skyland People’s Garden, also discussed Stables in the Shenandoah Na- the garden’s design, mainte- tional Park, located in the Blue nance, and management. Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Two Davidson River Initial Attack The summer of 1964 also saw crew members, students in the the passage of the Civil Rights Schenck Advanced Fire Manage- Act and the Wilderness Act. Ad- ment Training Program, dis- dressing the students and cussed their experience in the guests, Chief Tidwell noted the advanced firefighting trade; they changes that have occurred in are confident that graduating the past 50 years and reflected from Schenck’s program will that, “this is a moment in histo- open up career opportunities. ry, a time to reflect and cele- Schenck’s advanced fire pro- brate, but also a time to dream gram graduates an average of of what is next.” USDA Natural Resources and Environment Deputy Under Secretary Butch Blazer greets Davidson River 18 students each year and the Initial Attack crew member Nikisha Luke during the 50th anniversary celebration on September 17, Civilian Conservation Centers 2014. Photo courtesy of USDA. program has close to a 100% also have helped revitalize small employment placement rate towns and isolated rural com- with federal and state govern- munities. Deputy Under Secre- ments, and private entities. tary Butch Blazer recalled the Harpers Ferry Job Corps Center, positive effect when a Job Corps in partnership with The Corps Center was established on the Network and the National Trust Mescalero Apache Reservation for Historic Preservation, recent- in New Mexico where he grew ly completed its first project as a up. “We learned a lot, and it

(continued on page 4)

Chief Tom Tidwell points out an interesting detail on the wood map featuring the 28 Civilian Conservation Centers to Daniel Stevenson, one of the Harpers Ferry Job Corps carpentry students who helped construct the map, during the 50th anniversary celebration on September 17, 2014. Photo courtesy of USDA.

Job Corps National Director Tina J. Terrell presents U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell with a Wilderness 50th Legacy Award on September 17, 2014. Collbran Job Corps designed and produced (Back L to R) Justin Werner, Robert Matticks, Douglas Bingham, Jessica Cook, Tiffany Gottberg, and Shawna 500 of the awards . Meryl Harrell, Chief of Staff to the Under Secretary of Natural Resources and Freed. (Front L to R) Bobby Winstead, Anthony Moul, Christopher Hughes, Tina Terrell, Arthur “Butch” Blazer, Environment looks on. Photo courtesy of USDA. Tom Tidwell, Meryl Harrell, Daniel Stevenson, Nikisha Luke, and Luis Duran. Photo courtesy of USDA.

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USDA Deputy Under Secretary Butch Blazer and Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell Celebrate Job Corps’ 50th Anniversary (continued from page 3) Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office added to the diversity of our opportunities in the 21st Century Within the Forest Service, Job community.” Conservation Service Corps Corps most visibly honors the (21CSC) which provides those agency’s mission “To care for The Economic Opportunity Act students career path federal the land and serve people.” assigned the Civilian Conserva- employment opportunities. tion Centers a unique conserva- tion mission to “provide aca- Utilizing the resources of Job demic education and practical Corps Civilian Conservation Cen- training in work-based learning ters has been a cost-effective On April 21, 2015, to conserve, develop and man- method to complete worthwhile Job Corps age, and enhance public natural conservation projects on nation- resources and recreation areas, al forests and grasslands that students will return or to develop community pro- otherwise would not receive the to D.C. install new jects in the public interest.” necessary resources or man- power. benches in Rock To that end, just in the previous two fiscal years, Forest Service Reflecting on the significance of Creek Park and to Job Corps students have con- the day’s gathering, National demonstrate their tributed more than 500,000 Director Tina Terrell stated, vocational trades on Harpers Ferry Job Corps Center Director Ralph hours of service work on public “After 50 years, it is all about DiBattista is presented with a pumpkin grown in lands. In turn, the program has love of nature, love of the land, the Whitten Patio. the Collbran Job Corps Centers’ People’s Garden during the Job Corps 50th anniversary celebration connected nearly 1,500 Job and helping young folks.” on September 17, 2014. Photo courtesy of USDA. Corps enrollees with training

Prominent in this USDA in Review video is the celebra- tion of the 50th anniversary of Job Corps on Wednesday, September 17, 2015 on the patio of the Jamie L. Whit- ten Building in Washington, D.C.

USDA Week In Review September 26 - YouTube

Chief Tom Tidwell congratulates Daniel Stevenson, one of the Harpers Ferry Job Corps carpentry students who helped construct the wooden Job Corps map during the 50th anniversary celebration on September 17, 2014. Photo courtesy of USDA.

U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell chats with Davidson River Initial Attack crew member Luis Duran (L to R) Collbran Job Corps students and staff: Justin Werner, Rebecca Showalter, Robert Matticks, USDA and Harpers Ferry Job Corps Works Program Officer Shawn Miller. Photo courtesy of USDA. Natural Resources and Environment Deputy Under Secretary Butch Blazer, Douglas Bingham, Caren Swales, Jessica Cook, and Mary Kain. Photo courtesy of USDA.

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USDA Deputy Under Secretary Butch Blazer and Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell Celebrate Job Corps’ 50th Anniversary (continued from page 4) Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office

Davidson River Initial Attack crew members Nikisha Luke and Luis Duran explain the finer points of using a pulaski, a special hand tool used in wildland firefighting that combines an axe and an adze in one head and which is a versatile tool for constructing firebreaks. Photo courtesy of USDA. (L to R) Harpers Ferry student Anthony Moul, Ass't. Fire Program Officer Jothan McGaughey, BCL Anna Stead, students Daniel Stevenson, Christopher Hughes, and Bobby Winstead, Works Program Officer Shawn Miller, and Center Director Ralph DiBattista pose in front of the wooden Job Corps map constructed by the Center on September 17, 2014. Photo courtesy of Harpers Ferry Job Corps.

Guests examine the beautiful produce grown in Collbran Job Corps’ People’s Garden during the 50th anniversary celebration on September 17, 2014. (L to R) Collbran staff member Rebecca Showalter There’s a lot of fun going on at the table hosted by Harpers Ferry Job Corps. Photo courtesy of USDA. and student Jessica Cook seated at table. Collbran Job Corps constructed the backpack scale in the bottom left picture to celebrate the Wilderness 50th Anniversary. Photo courtesy of USDA.

Guests at the Job Corps 50th anniversary celebration had the opportunity to weigh their packs on one Timber Lake Job Corps student Tiffany Gottberg stands next to her winning anniversary poster contest of the wilderness scales during the 50th anniversary celebration on September 17, 2014. Photo design based on the theme “Job Corps: 50 Years of Opportunity and Progress—Where You’re From courtesy of Collbran Job Corps. Isn’t Who You Are” on September 17, 2014. Photo courtesy of USDA.

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Job Corps Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act by Constructing Kiosks Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Specialist, Job Corps National Office

Collbran Job Corps students and staff join Grand Mesa Uncompaghre Gunnison Forest Supervisor Trapper Creek Carpentry students raise up their wilderness kiosk for a better view. Photo courtesy Scott Armentrout (center) to dedicate a kiosk constructed by students for the Blue Lakes Trailhead on Stephanie Israel. the Mt. Sneffels Wilderness on October 9, 2014. Photo courtesy of Bill Tiedje, Ouray County

Collbran and Trapper Creek Job Gunnison Forest Supervisor Corps Center students cele- Scott Armentrout, along with “A wilderness, in contrast brated the 50th anniversary of Ouray District Ranger Tammy with those areas where the Wilderness Act by con- Randall-Parker, Specialist Aman- man and his own works structing wilderness kiosks. da Walker, and Ouray District Recreation Staff Andrew Maher dominate the landscape, The Trapper Creek Center cele- joined Collbran Lead Carpentry is hereby recognized as an brated the installation and Instructor Tim Parlove and stu- dedication of its wilderness area where the ear and its dents Erik Gonzalez, Cory Cruz, kiosk at the Magruder Ranger Brittany Gomez, and Derek Mey- community of life are un- Station which stands between ers to dedicate the Collbran Job trammeled by man, where the Selway-Bitterroot Wilder- Corps kiosk for the Blue Lakes ness and the Frank Church- man himself is a visitor Trailhead on the Mt. Sneffels River of No Return Wilderness Wilderness on October 9, 2014. who does not remain.” on October 5, 2014. (continued on page 7) —The Wilderness Act Grand Mesa Uncompaghre

Trapper Creek students connect kiosk sections in Trapper Creek students check to insure that the preparation to install it in the wilderness area of kiosk sections are stable before raising it and the historic Magruder Ranger Station on October settling the posts into holes on October 5, 2014. Trapper Creek carpentry student Nick Saadi (L) receives assistance from painting student Alex Fridley 5, 2014. Photo courtesy Stephanie Israel. Photo courtesy Stephanie Israel. (L) in putting on finishing touches to Trapper Creek’s wilderness kiosk. Photo courtesy Stephanie Israel.

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Job Corps Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act by Constructing Kiosks (continued from page 6) Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Specialist, Job Corps National Office

“This wonderful com- plex here really speaks to the Forest Service as family. Not only in terms of the length of its history, but look at the people and programs that have been in- volved. There’s a lot of ownership by a lot of different people and it’s a very, very special place.”

Trapper Creek students align the kiosk for instal- Trapper Creek students stabilize the wilderness Trapper Creek students continue to stabilize the lation in the wilderness area of the historic kiosk as they set it into the ground in the wilder- kiosk in the wilderness area of the historic --Mary Williams Magruder Ranger Station on October 5, 2014. ness area of the historic Magruder Ranger Magruder Ranger Station on October 5, 2014. Bitterroot National Photo courtesy Stephanie Israel. Station on October 5, 2014. Photo courtesy Photo courtesy Stephanie Israel. Stephanie Israel. Forest Historian

The wilderness kiosk construct- ed by Trapper Creek Job Corps was funded as a Wilderness Partnership project with Na- tional Wilderness Stewardship Alliance (NWSA), Selway- Bitter- root Frank Church Foundation, U.S. Forest Service Region 1, and the Bitterroot National Forest. “The intent of the project was to bring the U.S. Forest Service and the NWSA with other wil- derness organizations together to get something done that had a legacy component,” stated Selway-Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation Executive Director Sally Ferguson. The wilderness kiosk project was designed to introduce young people and people of diverse backgrounds to wilder- ness management principles, enhance awareness of the importance of stewardship to national forests, showcase the importance of stewardship to Weary but proud Trapper Creek Job Corps students pose in front of the kiosk they constructed for the wilderness area near the Magruder Ranger Station wilderness, and celebrate the which stands between the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. Forestry Conservation & Firefighting students Eric Strom and Christopher Reid, Painting student Alex Fridley, Carpentry students Leah Frye-Wilson, Zach Muth, Nick Saadi and Riley Durfee. Photo 50th anniversary of the Wilder- courtesy Stephanie Israel. ness Act.

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Ouachita Job Corps Improves the Wolf Pen Gap All Terrain Vehicle Trail Complex Roger Smith, Business Community Liaison, Ouachita Job Corps

The Mena-Oden Ranger District “Wheels Out of the Water” on has been working with commu- several priority stream cross- nity groups, trail clubs, and ings. “Improved water quality agency partners to address and sediment reduction is the water quality issues at Wolf goal” said District Ranger Tim Pen Gap All-Terrain Vehicle Oosterhous. (ATV) trail complex, near Mena, The newly formed partnership AR. Improvements to the trail with Ouachita Job Corps has complex as a result of this col- given local forest managers laborative effort are on-going another “tool in the toolbox” to as part of an Interim Manage- address the complex issue of ment Plan for the area. managing an ATV trail system In May 2012, the Ouachita Job with an aquatic threatened Ouachita Job Corps, Youth Conservation Corps, and Mena-Oden Ranger District employees relax for a Corps Center came on-board as and endangered species down- picture while building the "Wheels Out of the Water” stream crossings on the Wolf Pen Gap All Terrain a new partner. The Center and stream. Project highlights in- Vehicle Trail Complex on the Mena-Oden Ranger District. Photo courtesy of Ouachita Job Corps. forest/district employees have clude: implemented an innovative • Four stream crossings com- approach to mitigate sediment pleted Ouachita Job Corps welding and masonry and water quality issues at stream crossings on ATV trails. • Over 5,000 hours contribut- students and staff have contributed 5,000 ed by OJCC welding and ma- Interlocking concrete planks volunteer hours to the Wolf Pen Gap All-Terrain sonry staff and students are being used to get the Vehicle Trail Complex. • Local trail club has joined the partnership and is contrib- uting grant funds to the project • A 10-person Youth Conserva- tion Crew (YCC) assisted with the installation of stream crossings.

“Improved water quality and sediment reduction is the goal.”

—Tim Oosterhous Completed concrete plank stream crossing at District Ranger Ouachita welding students display the prototype form they designed to create the concrete plank Wolf Pen Gap ATV trail complex. Photo crossings for the "Wheels Out of the Water” stream crossings on the Wolf Pen Gap All Terrain Vehicle courtesy of Ouachita Job Corps. Trail Complex on the Mena-Oden Ranger District. Photo courtesy of Ouachita Job Corps.

Ouachita Job Corps masonry students pour the first batch of concrete to create interlocking concrete "Wheels Out of the Water” stream crossings plank built and signed by Ouachita Job Corps for the planks used to create "Wheels Out of the Water” stream crossings on the Wolf Pen Gap All Terrain Wolf Pen Gap All Terrain Vehicle Trail Complex on the Mena-Oden Ranger District. Photo courtesy of Vehicle Trail Complex on the Mena-Oden Ranger District. Photo courtesy of Ouachita Job Corps. Ouachita Job Corps.

Page 9 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier Jimmy Copeland Receives the Chief’s Honor Award for Cultural Transformation Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs officer, Job Corps National Office

Forests of North Carolina and the and surmounted obstacles to three Job Corps Centers in North secure new and successful part- “Jim is tireless,” says Center Carolina--Lyndon B. Johnson nerships with a range of commu- Director Tammy Wentland. (LBJ), Oconaluftee, and Schenck- nity organizations, including Blue “He takes the necessary -that will provide employment Ridge Community College, North steps to achieve a goal and opportunities to Job Corps stu- Carolina State School Board, and is not stymied by perceived dents using the Public Lands AmeriCorps NCCC. barriers or obstacles; he just Corps hiring authority. digs in and finds resolution Copeland earned a M.Ed. Mas- “Sometimes you have to do to those challenges and ters of Secondary Education from something no one else has done gets the job done!” Texas A&M University. He has to become something no one always wanted to make a differ- else has ever been,” states —Tammy Wentland ent in the lives of young people. Copeland. Schenck Job Corps Schenck Job Corps Academic Manager Jimmy “I have always wanted to be a Copeland. Photo courtesy of Jimmy Copeland. Center Director In the world of work, the expecta- teacher. In high school, I was a tion of new employees to figura- member of the Future Teachers tively “hit the ground running” of America,” states Copeland. “I Copeland constructed an MOU, On December 15, 2014, USDA can resonate as tired and pre- loved being a mentor and assist- based on using the Public Lands Agriculture Secretary Tom Vil- dictable; however, when ing others in their learning goals. Corps hiring authority, to provide sack presented Schenck Job Copeland joined the staff of the As a Licensed Special Education Job Corps students an alterna- Corps’ Academic Manager Jim Schenck Job Corps Civilian Con- Teacher, I found that everyone tive route to federal employ- Copeland with the USDA Honor servation Center as Academic learns differently. People just ment. Award for Cultural Transfor- Manager in late 2009, he not need time, patience, and oppor- mation for his “Bridging Oppor- “Jim is tireless,” says Center only hit the ground running but tunity.” tunities for Career Growth for Director Tammy Wentland. “He launched into a sprint. America’s Youth” project. Prior Although the Southern Research takes the necessary steps to to receiving this award, achieve a goal and is not sty- Copeland also received the mied by perceived barriers or Chief’s Honor Award for Cultural obstacles; he just digs in and Transformation, the highest finds resolution to those chal- level of recognition in the U.S. lenges and gets the job done!” Forest Service, and the Region 8 Copeland’s energy and efforts Regional Forester’s award for not only benefit Schenck, but Partners and Community earlier also the Oconaluftee and LBJ in the year. JCCCCs and in the near future all 28 Forest Service Job Corps “I was quite elated and sur- Centers. prised to receive such an hon- or,” reflected Copeland. The Copeland’s talents to recognize award recognized Copeland for and correct obstacles facing Job his “innovative and passionate Corps students seeking federal work helping Job Corps students careers was first displayed when gain federal employment,” en- he spearheaded a partnership hancing programs by providing with AmeriCorps NCCC. That technical training, and by build- partnership allowed students to ing communication bridges be- perform community service to tween Job Corps and other earn money for college. This (L to R) Forest Service Region 8 Deputy Regional Forester Ken Arney and Schenck Job Corps collaboration was so successful agencies that will connect quali- Academic Manager Jimmy Copeland. Photo courtesy of Forest Service Region 8. fied, diverse job candidates with that Schenck Job Corps has led federal job opportunities. the nation in educational place- Copeland came on-board with Station wanted to hire Job Corps ments. Copeland also reached Copeland has a long track rec- the belief that “every student students using the 2012 Path- out to AmeriCorps: Senior Corps ord of successful collaborations, counts,” and not only has he ways Program, Job Corps’ pro- to craft an MOU to provide criti- including his most recent work guided Schenk’s academic de- gram administration did not cal tutoring, mentoring, and to establish an overarching partment to consistently ranking align with the eligibility require- social skills services in danger Memorandum of Understanding in the top 10 of 124 Job Corps ments in this hiring authority. of being cut because of staff (MOU) between the Southern Centers over the past three Recognizing the limitations of downsizing. Research Station, the National years, he also has spearheaded Pathways to place his students, (continued on page 10)

Page 10 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Jimmy Copeland Receives the Chief’s Honor Award for Cultural Transformation (continued from page 9) Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs officer, Job Corps National Office Uwharrie National Forest. His 126 Job Corps Centers nation- efforts led to a student success- “All of our students wide. fully competing for a position as have a story to tell. All Copeland is proud of the strong a wildland firefighter. we have to do is take leadership and teamwork the “We are not just training stu- the time to listen. What education staff exhibited during dents, but investing and impact- makes Schenck a great his absence. “We have a strong ing the lives of people who will center is that we take staff full of leaders, high per- be tasked in the future with the time to listen. Our formers, and innovators. I be- maintenance and stewardship lieve iron sharpens iron; it may of the conservation of our Na- students are our be uncomfortable at times, but tional Forests and Grasslands,” customers.” it is a key to significant growth.” states Copeland. Copeland’s Copeland has begun envisioning track record of breaking down —Jimmy Copeland his future career path in the Jimmy Copeland congratulates Michael barriers to youth employment Schenck Job Corps Forest Service. “In the next 10 Mashburn at Schenck Job Corps graduation has assisted the agency with ceremonies. Photo courtesy of Schenck Job years I will seek opportunities to Corps. meeting the 21st Century Con- Academic Manager serve as a District Ranger, Civil servation Service Corps goals of Rights Specialist, and in other the Chief of the Forest Service. With a talent for recognizing and finished its 2013 program year land management capacities,” correcting obstacles in students’ All of our students have a story amongst the top ten Centers in he says. “My long term goal is to paths, Copeland joined the Na- to tell. All we have to do is take the country. Out of 125 Job reach the level of SES--I will the time to listen. What makes tional Forest Systems Civil Corps Centers, Schenck was either be the Director of Conser- Schenck a great center is that Rights Committee. Copeland rated number one in literacy and vation Education, National Di- we take time to listen. Our stu- was concerned that Job Corps number 6 in numeracy in PY13; rector of Job Corps, or a Social students lacked the funds to dents are our customers.” in PY14 the center was rated Scientist. Needless to say, I pay for food and supplies when Throughout the first nine number 2 in literacy and num- have a lot of work in front of working on Public Lands Corps months of 2014, Copeland com- ber seven in numeracy in PY14. me,” he laughingly adds. projects on remote national pleted his Middle Leader train- At the end of December 2014, Copeland’s ambitions are large, forests. He successfully pro- ing and a training practicum Schenck Job Corps ranked first but looking at his track record, it posed that the committee 120 day detail while continuing amongst the Civilian Conserva- is easy to imagine that Copeland should provide financial support to oversee Schenk’s academic tion Centers and fourth out of aspirations will be realized. for students working on the department. The department

Short Takes from the World of Civilian Conservation Centers

Angell Job Corps Urban Forestry students partnered with the Siuslaw National Forest and U.S. Forest Service State & Private For- estry Office to perform 7,560 volunteer hours on ecosystem management, rehabilitation, heritage resources, heritage facility mainte- nance, campground and trail maintenance projects in 2014. These volunteer hours are valued at $302,400. Chee Jarating and Isaiah Yezzie listen to Hans Schweitzer at a brunch that included Trapper Creek electrical students and residents of Sapphire Homes. As a decorated soldier, retired engineer for Boeing and world traveler Schweitzer has much to offer students. Photo courtesy of The Ravalli Republic.

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Angell Job Corps Honors Sergeant Major Scott Davis and Say Good-Bye Brady Endicott, Dorm Manager, Angell Job Corps

While undergoing a routine medical exam prior to his pla- toon’s deployment to the Kan- dahar Province in Afghanistan, Scott became aware of a heart valve medical problem. Scott’s platoon was deployed in August 2014, just after his death. The platoon served in Afghanistan over the Christmas holiday and the earliest they will return to the United States is late summer in 2015. Sergeant Major Scott Davis. Photo courtesy of Angell Job Corps. With Scott sick, another Com- mander was placed in charge of Platoon 2/162 Alpha Com- Angell students, staff and family members honor Sergeant Major Scott Davis and Pay it Forward. Photo courtesy of Angell Job Corps. Angell Job Corps Civilian Conser- pany, which weighed heavily on vation Center lost a dear friend Scott. and coworker, Sergeant Major Angell student Candelario Men- Scott Davis on July 13, 2014, doza donated a new basketball from complications from heart that was signed by every Angell Angell Job Corps Facts surgery. Scott worked in the Job Corps student and staff Angell Job Corps Residential member to include with the Students: 160 Living department as a dorm “I’m scheduled to fol- cards and gift baskets. manager before taking the posi- Vocational Trades: low in Scott’s footsteps “Scott would have wanted tion as the Center’s duty driver. something done for his men and as soon as I complete  Culinary Arts Scott retired from the U.S. Army I’m proud of the work our stu- my education at Angell  General Service in 2012, but he still served as a Job Corps. Since dents did,” stated Dorm Manag- Sergeant Major in the U.S. Na- er Brady Endicott. Scott’s wife, Technology tional Guard in Platoon 2/162 Scott’s passing I have Sheila and his daughter McKen-  Union Bricklaying Alpha Company after joining the been more determined zie participated in preparing the  Union Carpentry staff of Angell Job Corps. than ever to serve my cards and gift baskets.  Union Painting  Union Plumbing Scott was loved by the students Country in his honor” The Angell Job Corps family was  Urban Forestry he served at Angell Job Corps; extremely happy to be able to  Welding the students had a lot of affec- —Jorge Garcia send gifts across the world to tion and respect for Scott and Angell Job Corps honor one of its own. wanted to honor his memory. Student “Scott had a huge influence on my entering the Army after Job Corps. He took his time to ex- plain the opportunities the Army had to offer and guidance on a career field. I only have one In Scott’s honor, the students at credit left to complete my GED Angell made cards and gift bas- and have already completed my kets for all 100 members of trade,” stated Angell student Platoon 2/162 Alpha Company Jorge Garcia. “I’m scheduled to who served under Scott. follow in Scott’s footsteps as soon as I complete my educa- The students’ goal was to make tion. Since Scott’s passing I have 100 cards and gifts; however, been more determined than ever with tremendous efforts by An- to serve my Country in his hon- gell students, the Center was Angell Job Corps students, staff, and family members make cards and gift baskets for National Guard or.” able to make 137 baskets. Platoon 2/162 Alpha Company. Photo courtesy of Angell Job Corps.

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Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Fire, Forestry Program Exceeds Expectations Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office on training assignments, single Civilian Conservation Center resource assignments and Fire Program Facts preparation for the arrival of a new crew.  864 fire and camp crew The Weber Basin fire crew may students red-carded not have been as busy as DRIA, but it had another year of  1,987 days worked “firsts” for the Job Corps fire program when it added a Type  160,327 hours worked 4 Engine from the Uinta- Wasatch-Cache National Forest  19,393 hazardous fuels to its resources on-center. The reduction hours worked Weber Basin and Uinta-

Wasatch-Cache Engine and  57,276 WUI acres treated Initial Attack (IA) module re-

sponded to 10 requests for a total of 112 days of forest ac- train and hire graduates of the count work, initial/extended attack fires, severity requests Collbran Job Corps firefighters attend a briefing while on the Thompson River Fire Complex on the Lolo highest caliber.” National Forest in August 2014. Photo courtesy of Collbran Job Corps. and support functions. The flagship Davidson River Initial Attack Crew (DRIA) was Fire is not the sole accomplish- Maybe the best word to de- acres in Wildland Urban Inter- busy working nine wildfire and ment of Center fire teams. Alt- scribe the Job Corps Civilian face (WUI). 44 prescribed fire assignments hough not reflected in JCCCC Conservation Center (JCCCC) in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, fire numbers, Centers also con- In less than two years since 2014 fire season is “Wow!” Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, tribute significant hours on Chief Tom Tidwell announced North Carolina and Texas be- natural resource conservation Two thousand three hundred the JCCCC and Fire and Aviation tween January 15 and April 31, projects that improve the health and sixty eight Job Corps stu- Management (F&AM) partner- 2014. The crew spent a total of of national forests and grass- dents worked a total of 1,987 ship, the JCCCC program has 77 days on incident assign- lands that would otherwise not days and contributed 160,327 made great strides in reaching ments covering 686 wildfire be accomplished. hours on wildfire and prescribed its goal of having a Job Corps acres and 46,653 prescribed fire assignments --surpassing Forest Assistant Fire Manage- The Boxelder fire crew worked fire acres and 40 days on haz- the 124,009 hours worked on ment Officer (JCFAFMO) at each on a number of such unique ardous fuels preparation and 2013 assignments and despite center, with over one-third of and interesting projects. For project work. By mid-May, the a slow fire season. Eleven the JCCCCs having a dedicated two days in July, Boxelder Job crew had shut down for the year JCCCCs participating in Hazard- AFMO on-board. Corps’ Type II firefighting crew and spent the summer months ous fuels reduction projects (continued on page 13) spent 19,393 hours treating “I am extremely grateful that I 57,276 acres, 53,222 of those have this wonderful opportunity to work with the Job Corps fire program,” stated Fire Program Coordinator Jane Eide. “The program has far surpassed our goals and this would not have been possible without the out- standing partnerships the Cen- ters have with the national for- ests.” “I am very proud of the Job Corps fire program,” stated F&AM Director Tom Harbour at the annual Job Corps fire pro- gram meeting in Sacramento, Blackwell Job Corps firefighter Michael Mason California. “I built this program clears brush and debris from the Northern in a way to sustain success and Boxelder Job Corps Type II firefighting crew members remove the invasive common buckthorn to Research Station on October 29, 2014. Photo protect bio-diversity within the Dugout Gulch botanical area on the Bearlodge Ranger District, Black courtesy of David Melancon. my vision for the program is to Hills National Forest. Photo courtesy of Boxelder Job Corps.

Page 13 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Fire, Forestry Program Exceeds Expectations (continued from page 12) Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office completed a WUI project that ject, including hands-on training dispatch over 800 firefighter entailed cutting down thou- “I built this program in a of safety, leadership training Type II qualified students sands of Jack Pines that were way to sustain success and team building according to nationwide for any type of encroaching on Pageant Hill and my vision for the pro- Jensen. service needed by the nation- and the Custer Disc Golf al forests and grasslands. The JCCCC and AF&M partner- Course in Custer, South Dako- gram is to train and hire ship is heading into its third In looking forward to what to ta. graduates of the highest year. In 2015, Jacobs Creek, expect from the 2015 fire Another example of the crew’s caliber.” Lyndon B. Johnson, and Oco- season, Eide stated, “Our efforts helping Black Hills Na- naluftee JCCCC fire programs vision for FY15 is that, at a tional Forest protect bio- —Tom Harbour will begin; by year five of the minimum, we have five addi- diversity within the Dugout U.S. Forest Service partnership, every Forest Ser- tional centers online and we Gulch botanical area on the F&AM Director vice Job Corps Center will be continue to exceed our previ- Bearlodge Ranger District by able to support all-hazard emer- ous year’s numbers in stu- removing the invasive common gencies, hazardous fuels and dents trained and students buckthorn, which creates a District on the Bitterroot National forest health programs nation- on fire assignments.” Based canopy that blocks light from Forest. wide. upon the fire programs initial reaching through to understory two years, there is little doubt With a fully implemented pro- plant populations. In November, the Blackwell that this vision will material- gram, Civilian Conservation Cen- JCCCC helped the Northern Re- ize. “This five acre project is the search Station conduct a hazard- ters will have the capacity to beginning of a multiyear effort ous fuels reduction project to to control buckthorn in the help meet many of its goals, in- botanical area,” stated Bear- cluding implementation of nation- lodge Ranger District Botanist al and regional wildfire cohesive Nick Drozda. strategy plan and the removal of Another unique aspect of the hazard fuels. Boxelder JCCCC is that it is the “Officially, it was a fuels reduction only Center with a mobile cater- project,” stated team leader Lee ing unit in the country. The Jensen, Chequamegon-Nicolet center is available to provide National Forest assistant fire food services to any incident management officer and the during the initial attack phase Blackwell’s fire instructor. “We or at any fire camp that has removed hazardous fuels from less than 300 employees. around buildings—especially near The Weber Basin and Northern Utah fire Crew gather for a photo opportunity off the line off the Whiskey With its established Forestry critical entranceways.” Valuable Fire, Boise National Forest in August 2014. Photo courtesy of Ryan McFarland. Conservation & Firefighting lessons were built into the pro- trade and newly appointed AFMO, the Trapper Creek Job Corps fire program is looking to make its mark and has an By year five of the part- evolving partnership with the Bitterroot National Forest. nership between Job Corps and the Washing- Trapper Creek’s fire and camp crews racked up 21,417 hours ton fire staff, every For- on 24 assignments with an est Service Job Corps appraised value of Center will be able to $149,089.60. Three thousand support all-hazard one hundred and eighty seven emergencies, hazard- of those hours were spent on conservation projects, includ- ous fuels and forest ing planting 5,000 saplings on health programs nation- the West Fork Ranger District, wide and slashing, piling, burning, Members of Weber Basin Job Corps Engine and Flatwoods Job Corp Lonesome Pine Fire Crew and road closures over 75 Initial Attack Module. Photo courtesy of Ryan work hard during physical training. Photo acres on the Darby Ranger McFarland. courtesy of Chris Barker.

Page 14 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Calendar Year 2014 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Fire Assignments by Center

Oconaluftee firefighting students light controlled burns to reduce hazardous fuels. Photo courtesy of Oconaluftee Job Corps.

Centennial Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center firefighting crew. Photo courtesy of Centennial Job Corps.

Wolf Creek Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center firefighting crew. Photo courtesy of Wolf Creek Job Corps.

Centennial Job Corps’ Crew 8 functions as a Type II Initial Attack (IA) hand crew. The crew is comprised of eight students and one staff member. The eight Timber Lake Job Corps Civilian Conservation students are combined with two Boise National Forest six person IA crews. Crew 41 from Cascade Ranger District and Crew 11 from Mountain Home are Center firefighting crew. Photo courtesy of embedded into Crew 8 to make a 20 person Type II IA hand crew. Photo courtesy of Mike Towers. Timber Lake Job Corps.

Page 15 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Wolf Creek Job Corps’ Public Lands Corps Projects Demonstrate JCCCC’s Value to Public Lands Cyndi Szymanski, Natural Resource Liaison, Job Corps National Office

The 21st Conservation Service Douglas County playground to Corps (21CSC) is an initiative to create an ADA compliant and engage young people and re- accessible play area for children turning veterans to protect, re- with disabilities. The combined store, and enhance America's in-kind contribution for these Great Outdoors. These partner- projects is $53,714. ships leverage experience and Wolf Creek has preserved public expertise of existing Federal, lands: Wolf Creek Job Corps State, tribal, local and non-profit students fabricated heavy steel conservation and youth corps, gates for road closures on the and veterans' programs. North Umpqua and Rogue River- Forest Service Job Corps Civilian Siskiyou National Forests. Ten Conservation Centers (JCCCC) students contributed 480 hours are substantial contributors to of welding time and another 68 this national initiative. Examin- hours of painting and moving ing the participation of Wolf gate components. The in-kind Creek Job Corps Center, just one contribution to the National of the 28 Forest Service Job Forests is approximately Corps Centers, demonstrates $10,824. Wolf Creek Job Corps students (L to R) Richard Sandor, Tyler Bear, and Ethan Pennington stand by parts fabricated to construct heavy steel gates for road closures on the North Umpqua and Rogue River- the valuable contribution of Wolf Creek has repaired and Siskiyou National Forests. Photo courtesy of Sidney Lilienthal. JCCCC students to federal lands. rebuilt campsites: Twelve Wolf Wolf Creek has improved recrea- Creek Job Corps students con- vide Job Corps students access who spend 640 hours working tional access: Six Wolf Creek Job tributed 960 hours restoring to career pathways in natural on federal lands to receive non- Corps students spent 216 hours 150 picnic tables for the De- and cultural resources, and envi- competitive hiring for entry level fabricating Americans With Disa- partment of Interior Bureau of ronmental and other disciplines positions. So far, two JCCCC bilities Act (ADA) accessible fire Land Management. Students in the federal and non-profit students have accepted career rings for the Umpqua National used new tools such as power sectors. In particular, the Public positions with the U.S. Forest Forest. Under the supervision of hand tools and forklifts for mov- Lands Corps Healthy Forests Service and over 20 more are their instructors, these students ing equipment on this project. and Restoration Act allows youth likely this year. welded the rings from 12 inch The valued contribution of their 20 pound per foot channel iron. effort is $21,648. An additional 19 Wolf Creek These experiences and expo- students laid concrete for a sure to Federal lands also pro-

Wolf Creek Job Corps student Ethan Pennington Wolf Creek Job Corps student Tyler Bear check- with assembled parts for Americans With Disa- ing his welds on Americans With Disabilities Act bilities Act (ADA) accessible fire rings for the (ADA) accessible fire rings grill tops for the Umpqua National Forest. Photo courtesy of Umpqua National Forest. Photo courtesy of Wolf Creek Job Corps student Ethan Pennington with assembled parts for Americans With Disabilities Sidney Lilienthal. Sidney Lilienthal Act (ADA) accessible fire rings for the Umpqua National Forest. Photo courtesy of Sidney Lilienthal.

Page 16 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier My Testimony as a Public Lands Corps Graduate—Stephen Osborne Stephen Osborne, Forestry Aide, Huron-Manistee National Forest

trade at the Tucson campus. I thing my instructor, Mickey wasn’t too sure what I wanted Beland, had to teach and “I fell in love with everything to do then and perhaps I was a learned more than I could imag- about this event; the forest, little frightened about the pro- ine and loved every minute of it! the community, my cowork- spect of too much change. How- In February of 2014, another ers, but most of all, the job ever, close to graduating from forestry student, Dante Sutton, itself. There’s nothing quite the program an urge began and I were sent to Oscoda, Mich- like working in the great overwhelming me. I felt ambi- igan where we volunteered at outdoors doing a job you tion, I want to do something with the Huron Shores Ranger respect. It felt great and still more, something great! I began District, part of Huron-Manistee does. After several months I looking at my options. That’s National Forest. graduated from the program Forestry Aide Stephen Osborne when I discovered the forestry and was unleashed into the program at Schenck Job Corps I fell in love with everything real world, where I began Civilian Conservation Center. about this event; the forest, the looking for a job in the community, my coworkers, but After several months of at- Forest Service. “ most of all, the job itself. There’s My name is Stephen Osborne. I tempting to get in, I finally got nothing quite like working in the was born in Tucson, Arizona and accepted due to my persis- —Stephen Osborne great outdoors doing a job you raised in Marana, Arizona. I have tence. I knew this is what I Forestry Aide respect. It felt great and still always wanted to work in the wanted and wouldn’t let any- does. After several months I forest. thing stop me from achieving it. graduated from the program received the job offer for the When I arrived in North Carolina The forest has always been this and was unleashed into the real timber sales prep position in on the Pisgah National Forest I mystical place full of wonders world, where I began looking for Oscoda. That was probably the was in awe! That moment I was and excitement to me. Unfortu- a job in the Forest Service. I was best day of my life. Now I sit in completely reassured that I nately, I was never the most am- especially interested in a timber office writing this bio and I made the right choice. bitious kid. After graduating high sales prep position available in couldn’t be more happy thanks school and having a brief but The following months were the district I had worked at, to my instructor, Mickey enlightening college experience I spent learning all the ins and which was basically the job I Beland, the Public Lands Corps joined the Job Corps program. outs of the trade. I was com- was doing before. program and all the countless pletely immersed with every- others that helped me get here. I started out in the plumbing Two days before Christmas I

Short Takes from the World of Civilian Conservation Centers

Trapper Creek Job Corps students, in collaboration with library patrons paint the Stevensville library community room creating long lasting benefits.

http://www.nbcmontana.com/news/job-corps-students-paint- stevensville-library-community-room/30850662

Angell Job Corps Urban Forestry students partnered with the Si- uslaw National Forest and U.S. Forest Service State & Private For- estry Office to perform 7,560 volunteer hours on ecosystem man- agement, rehabilitation, heritage resources, heritage facility Harpers Ferry Job Corps pays a visit to U.S. Senator Joe Manchin III (R-WV). (L to R) Students Ketrone maintenance, campground and trail maintenance projects in Sampson, Christian Duckett, Jonathan Parker , Brandon Carney, Kristin Moore, Senator Joe Manchin 2014. These volunteer hours are valued at $302,400. III, BCL Anna Stead, and students Samuel McFadden, and Andre Linton. Photo courtesy of Anna Stead.

The Schenck Job Corps Student Government Association sponsored a fund drive that raised $130.00 for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christ- mas Child to pay for the shipping costs of the thousands of donated shoe “care” boxes shipped around the globe.

Page 17 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier My Pine Ridge Job Corps Graduation Speech—Jacob Brown, Public Lands Corps Graduate Jacob Brown, Visitor Information Specialist, Medicine Bow – Routt National Forest

were uncomfortable, as I was in that I have completed and even a culture shock and that is surpassed that goal I made on where I was able to make pro- January 22, 2013, which lead to gress to the point where I am my opportunities in the Public today. Lands Corps program, where I • Public Lands Corps (PLC) was given a chance to begin Act of 1993 authorizes the I have completed the Office stepping towards a long career Forest Service to provide Administration trade. Despite in with the U.S. Forest Service on community and national the beginning I didn’t think I the Parks Ranger District in Wal- service, work experience and could do it, but I stayed with it, den, Colorado as a visitor infor- training to young men and with a little encouragement mation specialist. women who are low-income, from Mrs. Hooker. I have expe- unemployed, or underem- Visitor Information Specialist Jacob Brown rienced many opportunities in I would like to take this oppor- ployed persons on public my time at Pine Ridge, from tunity to thank Mr. Franklin, Mrs. lands. working in many of the offices Eitemiller, Mrs. Hooker, Jason • Youth must be between 16 across the campus to learning Brey and Hutson Vann, along -25 years of age To my fellow corpsmen and wom- many different job skills. I have with many others at Pine Ridge • Work experiences are a en, two and one-half years ago I met a lot of interesting people and the Medicine Bow–Routt minimum of 640 hours sup- was going nowhere. Like many of National Forest for all their hard porting activities under the you I had so many options, very work in getting me to this oppor- Healthy Forest few were viable, and fewer would tunity I have been graced with. Recreation Act lead me along a good path. Then In 2014, Brown • Upon completion youth are with a push from my family Although most of the folks that contributed 1,360 to- entered Job Corps at the same eligible for non-competitive (mostly my mom for whom I owe tal hours and 200 Federal hiring the origins to my success), we time either left the program • 20 PLC agreements exist went to a meeting for information hours in certified early or graduated before me, I between JCCCC and the NFS about Job Corps. Public Lands Corps will say this if you are ever think- projects. ing of quitting, or have doubts  In 2014, two JCCCC After applying and earning the about being able to finish the students have been hired opportunity, I got ready to attend program, please reconsider. and 13 more are in process the Pine Ridge Job Corps Center You never know what opportuni- • For more information, in Chadron, Nebraska. This is the during my stay at Job Corps, ty is just waiting around the cor- contact Cyndi Szymanski, farthest I have ever been from and I have taken their perspec- ner in your near future. Job Corps National Office home, and now I have gone even tive and incorporated it in my Natural Resource Liaison at Now, I am glad that I am finally further to Walden, Colorado on own. I never really wanted to [email protected] the Parks Ranger District. quit or leave Job Corps before I here on this stage, having read accomplished my goal of mak- this speech to inspire the next The night before I left for Pine ing myself a better person, and group of successful Pine Ridge Ridge Job Corps I had a panic at this point, I am happy to say Job Corps students. attack. The next morning I did not really want to go, and again it was my mom encouraging me towards the success I know to- day. I was way out of my comfort zone. Those first days at Job Corps and for the first two weeks

I will say this if you are ever thinking of quitting, or have doubts about being able to finish the program, please reconsider. You never know what opportunity is just waiting around the corner in your near future.

—Jacob Brown, Visitor Information Specialist Jacob Brown (far left) having an awesome time working on trails in the Great Outdoors. Photo courtesy of the Medicine Bow— Visitor Information Specialist Routt National Forest.

Page 18 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier Blackwell Job Corps Students Work to Gain Skills and Work Toward Futures David Melancon, Public Affairs Specialist, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

April Tellez and Allen Mathers check the level on a roof mock up in the Antonio Searles was a member of a four-man team of Black- Blackwell student Kyle Wood struggles through some leg lifts Blackwell Job Corps Center’s carpentry shop on December 10, 2014. well student-firefighters who traveled to the Northern Research during a physical fitness training session at Blackwell Job Photo courtesy of Dave Melancon. Station Institute for Applied Ecosystem Studies on October 29, Corps on December 10, 2014. Students participating in the 2014, on a hazardous fuels reduction project. Students Center’s wildland firefighting program get together three cleared brush and removed fallen trees making the building times a week to increase their personal fitness and to grow less susceptible to a wildfire. Photo courtesy of Dave Melan- together as a team. Photo courtesy of Dave Melancon.

April Tellez found traditional school diplomas either through man in that specialty. “Blackwell college – that’s why I came classwork unfulfilling and real- a partnership with a local high has shown me how to become here,” he said. “They teach lots ized distractions in her Madison school, online or through Gen- focused. Since I got here I real- of hands-on (skills), how to get community were keeping her eral Educational Development ized it is not about now, it is along with people from other from meeting her personal goals. (GED) or High School Equivalen- about later.” cultures. You get a trade, you “I was not happy sitting in a chair get a license, you get a job and cy testing. In addition to its workshops and all day and then going home and you get paid.” classrooms, the 25-acre Black- doing more work when I can do Tellez said she found her Black- well campus features a wellness Searles is enrolled in the Con- something physical,” she said. well “home” in the center’s car- center, dining facility, counsel- struction Crafts and Laborer “Back at home, I was so distract- pentry shop. “I always liked ing services, a student-run bank, training program, known as CCL ed, so worried about having fun hands-on projects. I like working a computer lab and entertain- on campus. He spends his day and just making a few dollars so I hard and I can see it (my work) ment areas located in its dormi- learning how to safely use hand could go out and have more fun.” build up as I go,” she said. “I really enjoy the carpentry trade, tories and campus recreation tools, drive a forklift, erect and Just over six months ago, she so I hope to still be working with- center where students can work secure scaffolding, pour con- decided to do something about in the trade (in the future). With- out, play basketball, challenge crete, understand OSHA rules her academic shortcomings and in this trade, the opportunities each other to a game of pool, or and learn jobsite first aid. “It’s a the distractions. Acting upon a are endless.” just relax and watch a movie. nice trade. There’s lots of hard friend’s advice, the 17-year-old Blackwell, which celebrates its work that keeps me busy. I like decided to become a carpenter Tellez graduated from Blackwell 50th anniversary in November, to keep working,” he said, add- and enrolled in the Blackwell Job in December. But, she has to plans to schedule an open ing, “That’s also why I like Corps Civilian Conservation Cen- wait until she is 18 years old to house, sometime this summer, wildland firefighting. That keeps ter. Two weeks after enrolling, qualify for a union job place- according to guidance counselor me busy.” she earned her high school ment. In addition to her class- Lorie Almazan. In addition to his work in the equivalency diploma. “It was one work, Tellez worked with the Antonio Searles, 21, said he CCL trades, Searles is one of of the best things I ever did,” she Blackwell staff to develop her enrolled at Blackwell because about 20 students enrolled in said while taking a break from resume, cover letters and job he wants to stay busy and posi- the school’s wildland firefighting the center’s carpentry shop. “It interview skills. “I feel very pre- tive. Searles said he considered program. Earlier this year, was work, work, work with no pared,” she said. enrolling in college near his Searles deployed to Oregon for breaks. I was dedicated.” Once she begins her career in native Detroit but there were two weeks to battle a wildfire Blackwell offers training in office the Madison area, Tellez said obstacles in his way: no driver’s there and now serves as a team automation, carpentry, construc- she will begin training for her license, no money for tuition leader. I never saw myself doing tion crafts, health occupations, journeyman’s status and will and living expenses. And, he did it,” said Searles. “But now I like masonry and welding. Additional- specialize in a skill such as roof- not know what to study. “So, it. It’s a lot of hard work but it ly, students can earn their high ing, possibly becoming a fore- why waste a couple of grand in pays off.” (continued on page 19)

Page 19 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Blackwell Job Corps Students Work to Gain Skills and Work Toward Futures (continued from page 18) David Melancon, Public Affairs Specialist, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

here with your mind set right, Wood is working toward his “It was one of the best and come and do what you “Whatever opportunities carpentry, scaffolding, forklift things I ever did. It was came here to do, then the doors operator’s, OSHA and “green work, work, work with no will start opening.” jump in front of me first, building” certificates, his breaks. I was dedicated.” then I’ll dive in—go for it.” wildland firefighting “Red” qual- “I was not doing anything at ifications card and his high home — basically sitting around, —Kyle Wood school diploma. “You can’t just —April Tellez wasting time,” said Kyle Wood. Carpentry Student rely on one certain career. You Carpentry Student “I dropped out of school in the got to have several different 10th grade so I needed a pro- ones in case one falls short or gram that offered me the oppor- Searles, who enrolled at Black- they are not hiring.” tunity to gain my high school diploma.” So on his step- well in January 2014, said he mother’s advice, Wood, 22, plans to graduate this spring enrolled into Blackwell’s car- and plans on starting his career “It’s a nice trade. There’s pentry and wildland firefighting in the Milwaukee area. There is programs in December 2013. Blackwell Job Corps lots of hard work that a possibility of making fire- Wood said he is tackling his serves approximately keeps me busy. “ fighting a career but for now he coursework one class at a time. 160 students. The Center will rely on his CCL training, he But there is more to it than just celebrates its 50th said. “I would recommend com- —Antonio Searles a passing grade. “It is easy to anniversary in November ing here,” he said. “Job Corps is Construction Crafts pass the tests, but it is also 2015. a good place. It will open a lot Laborer Student important to understand the of doors for you. If you come subjects,” he said.

New York Times Best Selling Author Stedman Graham Advocates for Job Corps Clara Johnson, Job Corps Liaison, Region 8/9

town that “Nothing good ever around one’s identity. Graham comes out of Whitesboro.” His toured the Center and met one- Graham grew up in Whitesbo- two youngest brothers were on-one with the students to ro, New Jersey – an all African born with developmental disa- listen to their dreams and to -American community situat- bilities and he was often har- encourage them. ed in the midst of an affluent assed. Also, it proved difficult resort region in southern New growing up in his small commu- In August 2014, Graham was Jersey. He remembers well nity as a faired-skin black man. the featured speaker for the Blackwell Job Corps Center’s the oft-uttered phrase about That painful childhood took a toll and Graham says he spent 50th anniversary celebration. his home town that “Nothing way too much time and energy After sharing the same mes- good ever comes out of Stedman Graham speaks to Golconda Job trying to prove to others and to sage of hope and self-worth, he Corps Center students on the Nine-Step Suc- Whitesboro.” himself that he was more than announced that he would return cess Process. Photo courtesy of Clara Johnson. his circumstances. to Blackwell in June of 2015 to kick off a partnership between In 2008, Forest Service Job “Stedman has a powerful mes- faced by today’s youth. Johnson the Forest Service, Forest Ser- Corps Liaison Clara Johnson, sage about how to create a recognized that if Job Corps stu- vice Job Corps Centers, and the who retired in December 2014, strong identity, the importance dents were to pursue a career in National Professional Anglers partnered with Stedman Gra- of believing in yourself, and the Forest Service, they had to Association. Graham will en- ham, New York Times Best- having the grit to press through be willing to take on challenges, gage in a hands-on fishing clinic Selling Author and CEO and any challenge. This message is develop a strong identity, and with the Blackwell students to Chairman of S. Graham & Asso- what I believe our young people find role models to help them encourage them to pursue a ciates, to build awareness need to hear, especially from achieve their dreams. career in natural resources. about the Job Corps program. someone who has walked in Graham summed up his experi- Graham grew up in Whitesboro, similar shoes,” states Johnson. Graham is a long-time advocate ences at the Civilian Conserva- New Jersey – an all African- In 2012, Graham spoke to and supporter of Job Corps and tion Centers by stating, “I love American community situated in more than 200 students at his work with the program Job Corps. It’s a great program. the midst of an affluent resort Golconda Job Corps, sharing spans more than a decade. His I want to do everything I can to region in southern New Jersey. his Nine-Step Success Process, powerful personal journey reso- help these young people reach He remembers well the oft- a learning management system nates with the many challenges their dream.” uttered phrase about his home designed to organize one’s life

Page 20 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Ready for the Gardening Season Bonnie Fuller, Principle Teacher, Boxelder Job Corps

elder’s Math Instructor Rae The mission of the Seed Rowell, Boxelder’s will be using Savers Exchange is to help the information gathered from save North America’s diverse, last year’s soil enrichment ex- but endangered, garden periments to enhance the soil in heritage for future genera- both the garden and green- tions by building a network of house. Rowell and Boxelders’ people committed to collect- Cook Supervisor Tamera ing, saving and sharing heir- Leveque are working together to loom seeds and plants, while use the kitchen’s earth tub com- educating people about the posters to reuse materials to value of genetic and cultural enrich the soil. diversity. In March, the math and facility maintenance students will tour the Rapid City compost center. (L to R) Boxelder Job Corps staff members Rae Rowell and Michelle Crane and students Okony Oballa for the seeds are that we pass on There they will learn about vol- and Ashiro Ashkaba hold the seeds obtained from seed Savers Exchange on January 26, 2015. Photo our seed harvest. courtesy of Bonnie Fuller. ume (cubic tons and cubic These seeds will be part of the yards), standard units, conver- Boxelder students and staff are packets from the Seed Saver’s biology labs in education. Stu- sions, estimations, particle size looking forward to this year’s Exchange. dents will study cells, genetics, and surface area. The visit will gardening season. The math The mission of the Seed Savers cell division, ecology, and plant include some scientific infor- and science department is work- Exchange is to help save North reproduction. Students will learn mation, such as, microbe inter- ing hard to integrate gardening America’s diverse, but endan- about plants scientific names, actions, microbial activity, and activities into education and our gered, garden heritage for fu- pollination purity, and the differ- the life cycle of microbes. Healthy Eating Activities Lifestyle ence between fruits that are ture generations by building a A big thanks to these two teach- (HEALS) program. This quarter market mature compared to network of people committed to ers for finding a way to make they will focus on seed germina- seed mature. Paying attention to collecting, saving and sharing education applicable to every- tion and composting. healthy eating and garden activi- heirloom seeds and plants, day activities. The time and ef- ty will also be part of the garden- Boxelder’s Science Teacher while educating people about fort they have put into the Big ing season this year. Michelle Crane did some re- the value of genetic and cultur- Green Garden and Greenhouse search and he was able to pro- al diversity. All the Seed Saver’s Seeds will only do as well as the program will help create a new cure a box of 36 different seed Exchange asks in exchange is soil they are planted in. Box- generation of gardeners.

Bitter Root Backcountry Horsemen Call Upon Trapper Creek Job Corps Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office

The talent and workmanship of discuss their vision of adding four Trapper Creek Job Corps stu- new campsites to the Bitterroot dents is recognized by and National Forest’s Sam Billings tapped often by the communi- Campground. Trapper Creek weld- ties surrounding Darby, Mon- ing instructors and students en- tana. National forest staff and thusiastically offered their skills to residents know that Trapper build hitching racks, fire rings, Creek staff and students can picnic table frames. The first be relied upon for expert camp, constructed by 25 volun- knowledge, advice and good teers in October 2014, features a results when called upon for high line that will keep horses assistance with a challenging safe while they are tethered at the project. So it is no surprise that, camp. The Trapper Creek students after receiving a $12,000 grant built tall metal posts at the camp from the Ravalli County Re- so that the BRBH members can source Committee, the Bitter attach a cable and chains ending Root Backcountry Horsemen with a swivel ring that visitors can (BRBH) made a beeline to the use to tie up horses. Bitter Root Backcountry Horsemen members set one of the new hitching rails into concrete. About 25 volunteers from the group helped build a new horse camp at the Sam Billings Campground in the Trapper Creek Job Corps to West Fork of the Bitterroot. Photo courtesy of The Ravalli Republic.

Page 21 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

I Grew Up Under the Threat of Wildfires —Rising Star Brian Zimmerman Clara Johnson, Job Corps Liaison, Forest Service Region 8/9

conducting surveys. tion,” says Brian. “That summer my crew members and I saved The job opportunities were lim- “Growing up, I saw wildland two bridges and kept the road ited for Brian in Bailey, Colorado. firefighters keep our little open by cutting and removing After graduating from high town of Bailey safe. At the trees from across the road.” school Brian went to work for age of 12, I knew I was the local deli and grocery store In April 2007, Zimmerman grad- made to fight fires. It was where he stayed until he was 22 uated from Trapper Creek and already in my blood. I’m a year old. transferred to the Schenck Job huge fan of Smokey Bear – Corps Center. There he complet- in fact I have a Smokey The desire to be a firefighter had ed the Advanced Wildland Fire tattoo on my right leg!” stayed with him – he just didn’t Program as a member of the know how he was going to make Davidson River Initial Attack —Brian Zimmerman that happen. One day while talk- Crew. Fire Technician/ ing with a friend, he learned that Engine Operator the Trapper Creek Job Corps in Brian says he learned more than Montana had a great fire train- just firefighting at Job Corps. He ing program. In 2007, Brian said he “learned to be a leader” next five years, he definitely Fire Technician/Engine Operator Brian made the trek to Montana and that he “gained the confi- Zimmerman. Photo courtesy of Clara Johnson. sees himself in the fire busi- where he got his first healthy dence to be a better person.” ness. His preference would be dose of fire training. Brian says there were people to work in Western Montana “It was exciting to be in the ac- who helped him all along the “where the big fires are” and way. Les Meyers, his first Job where he can attain his qualifi- Brian Zimmerman is a proud, GS- Corps instructor, encouraged cations as an IC-5 and eventual- 4 Fire Technician/Engine Opera- and guided him. Christopher ly get promoted to Crew Boss. tor on the Chequamegon-Nicolet “If you are looking for a Geidel, his current supervisor, is He’s open to working for the National Forest, Great Divide better life, don’t get very supportive and is a true Ranger District where he’s Department of the Interior’s down on yourself for the friend. Clara Johnson, Job Corps Bureau of Land Management or worked as a permanent, full time Liaison, gave him personal and employee since 2009. mistakes you’ve made. National Park Service, but his Learn from those professional tips and helped preference is to stay with the him get a detail in the Regional Zimmerman is no stranger to mistakes and keep Forest Service. wildland fires. Growing up in the Office when he was laid off for small mountain town of Bailey, moving forward.” the summer. He said that expe- When asked about advice he Colorado, he and his family were rience “broadened his perspec- would give to other young peo- evacuated three times in one —Brian Zimmerman tive” of the Forest Service and ple he says, “If you are looking summer from the threat of near- taught him there’s much more for a better life, don’t get down Fire Technician/ to the agency than just “boots on yourself for the mistakes by wildland fires. When he’s not Engine Operator working on fires, Brian works with on the ground.” you’ve made. Learn from those the wildlife and silviculture staff mistakes and keep moving for- As Brian makes plans for the ward.”

Short Takes from the World of Civilian Conservation Centers

Steve Lenzo has been selected as a new Assistant National Director of Job Corps. Lenzo was the Deputy Supervisor of the Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands. Lenzo has over 30 years of experience with the Forest Service and has served in leadership positions in natural resource manage- ment in Nebraska, South Carolina, Washington, and Ore- gon. Steve has also worked in education, serving leadership roles at Pine Ridge, Frenchburg, Curlew, and Timber Lake Job Corps Centers. Trapper Creek Job Corps Student Government Association hosted a bake sale and donated $429 to Darby’s Bread Box on Thanksgiving Eve. Photo courtesy of The Ravalli Republic.

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From Miami City Boy to Western Wildland Firefighter—Rising Star Tavaris Evans Clara Johnson, Job Corps Liaison, Forest Service Region 8/9

Evans has fought fires all over grandfather, “doing nothing” the United States – from Alaska, when his grandfather told him, Oregon, North Carolina, Idaho, “You are going to be homeless if Arizona, New Mexico, and even you don’t’ get a job and finish in his home state of Florida. your education. You got to get out of here.” “My grandfather’s “I spent 21 days fighting fires in “I have learned words jolted me to reality,” says Idaho, camping out amongst the Evans. “I had passed by the that if you want starts, and sleeping on the Miami Job Corps nearly every ground,” said Evans. “It just day when I was hanging with my to achieve your makes me smile. Growing up in friends. Well that day, I walked the inner-city of Miami, I’d never in and signed up.” dreams and even truly experienced the out- doors before my career with the After a year, Evans transferred goals, then you Forest Service.” to the Lyndon B. Johnson Job Corps Civilian Conservation Cen- need to Tavaris shared that people are ter where he earned his General surprised that he enjoys the Equivalency Diploma. Next, he embrace the outdoors and wildland fire- Assistant Engine Operator Tavaris Evans. Photo enrolled in the Schenck Ad- fighting because they expect idea of “new” courtesy of Clara Johnson. vanced Wildland Fire Program “city-folk” to have little tolerance where he earned his wildland or appreciation for the outdoors. and go for it.” fire certification with the Da- He said he can’t imagine himself vidson River Initial Attach Crew. in another career. He loves what Tavaris Evans works as a GS-6 he does. Tavaris shared that while he’s —Tavaris Evans benefited from the support and permanent, full time, Assistant Tavaris grew up in Liberty City – advice of many mentors in the Engine Operator on the Cibola a small neighborhood in the Forest Service, the person who National Forest in New Mexico. heart of Miami, Florida. The has made the greatest impact Prior to that, he spent more than future for young African Ameri- has been Clara Johnson, Forest seven years on the Hoosier and can men in that area was bleak. Service Job Corps Liaison. “She Pisgah National Forests honing Reports of gun-related violence helped me to secure my first job with a thriving career in the For- his wildland firefighting skills. were a daily occurrence. At the as a student intern. Her support, est Service. “I have learned that Tavaris is a qualified Type 2 Fire- age of 16, Tavaris had dropped encouragement and advice are if you want to achieve your fighter, engine operator, sawyer, out of high school. The year what helped me to be where I dreams and goals, then you and is a certified Incident Com- 2004 was a real turning point in am today – a successful man need to embrace the idea of mander Type 5. his life. He was living with his

At Boxelder Job Corps, Worked Based Learning is a Hugh Success Bonnie Fuller, Principle Teacher, Boxelder Job Corps

Pwey Doh and then transfer that information Doh's efforts, the bowl will soon Kajal Urwan into a computer database. Their be on display at the Homestake had a wonder- work enables people to immedi- Adams Research and Cultural ful experience ately identify what is in the box- Center. working with es. The Work-Based Learning expe- Mike Runge at Doh's favorite project was care- rience is a little different than the City of fully gluing together a little Chi- most. Although students are Deadwood’s nese bowl. The bowl was found putting their office administra- Historical in pieces at a Deadwood archeo- tion training to work by filing Preservation logical dig. Doh had to carefully and cataloging items, they are Department. decide where the pieces fit, working with very delicate and They had the apply glue, and then hold the historic materials. Both Urwan opportunity to piece in place for about a mi- and Doh agreed it was a posi- catalog items nute and a half. “I was nervous I tive experience. Boxelder Work-Based Learning student Pwey Doh stands proudly with his from the Chi- supervisor Mike Runge, a member of the City of Deadwood’s Historical would break it more,” he says nese dig and Preservation Department. Photo courtesy of Boxelder Job Corps. about the project. Thanks to

Page 23 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Flatwoods Job Corps Civilian Conservation Rises to the Top, Saving the Lives of America’s Youth Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Specialist, Job Corps National Office

apparent across departments— from academics to vocational Flatwoods Job Corps Facts training to counseling. There is a camaraderie and cohesive- Students: 160 ness amongst the staff along with a desire to help students Vocational Trades: reach their potential. This com- mitment has been invaluable to  Electrical Marcus Britt, a 24 year old  Office Administration business clerical student from  Plumbing Norfolk, VA. “I would be dead or  Union Carpentry in jail if I had not come to Flat-  Union Cement Masonry woods,” states Britt. “The staffs  Union Painting talk to me every day on striving  Union Plastering towards bigger things. They encourage me and let me know

(continued on page 24)

Flatwoods students digs up the sidewalk in the town of Appalachia, Virginia. Photo courtesy of Flatwoods Job Corps.

At the inception of the Civilian spot 26 by May 2013. Today Conservation Centers, Forest Flatwoods is solidly performing Service leadership implement- in the top 50 of all Job Corps ed a training program that em- centers, at times moving all up phasized the joint responsibility to number one. “I hold my staff of all center staff for operating accountable and tell them keep a successful center. up with me,” states Scholes. “Sometimes they are nervous Every employee, down to cooks about trying something new. and administrative clerks, were They are like paratroopers up in accountable for teaching and planes who are scared to jump counseling Job Corps students out the door. I am the one who and monitoring student perfor- kicks them out of the plane.” mance. In recent years, Flat- woods Job Corps, led by Center Center staff confirm Scholes’ Approximately 75 Flatwoods Job Corps graduates are employed at Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding. Photo courtesy of Flatwoods Job Corps. Director David Scholes, has management style is working. resurrected this philosophy and “Mr. Scholes revamped the way achieved remarkable results. Center leadership does busi- No matter what position a staff ness, closely looking at our member holds, whether he or budget, student scores and she has worked at the Center a behavior,” says Supervisory few months or over 20 years, Social Services Assistant Walt every employee can pull a tran- Stuart, who has worked at Flat- sition report to determine an woods for almost 19 years. “He individual student’s progress exhibits a quiet leadership that and help move a student to- emphasizes communication and wards the ultimate goal of plac- cooperation amongst employees ing him or her in a well-paying, that takes in the marvelous career oriented job. diversity of our staff. It does not matter if you have a high school Flatwoods was ranked 118 out diploma or a Master’s Degree; of 125 Job Corps centers when staffs have to find common Scholes arrived. In PY12, the ground within developed stand- Center gained enough ground ards,” reflects Stuart. to move to a 105 percent rating Flatwoods Job Corps Lonesome Pine Fire Crew stand in front of Little Stoney Falls. Photo courtesy of which moved the Center up to This focus on students’ needs is Chris Barker.

Page 24 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Flatwoods Job Corps Civilian Conservation Rises to the Top, Saving the Lives of America’s Youth (continued from page 23) Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Specialist, Job Corps National Office have about 75 students working A particularly successful at the shipyard.” partnership Tickles has Flatwoods graduates from all of developed is with Hunting- the construction trades, includ- ton Ingalls Industries New- ing welders, sheet metal work- port News Shipbuilding. “I ers, marine painters, shipboard had a graduate from the services (fabrication), deck elec- Newport News area hired by tricians, and pipe fitters, are the shipyard. The hiring employed at the shipyards. The manager liked him so much starting hourly wage is $16.16 that he called me and with full benefits and some stu- asked me if I had any more dents are now making in the $25 dollar range. like him.” Reflecting on what he has —Kelly Tickles learned in his years as center director, Sholes states, "My stu- “Before” picture of sidewalk in Appalachia, “After” picture of sidewalk in Appalachia, Career Development Virginia before it was repaired by Flatwoods Job Virginia after Flatwoods Job Corps cement Specialist dents know how to be failures Corps cement masonry students. Photo masonry students poured new concrete. Photo and they are good at it. They courtesy of Flatwoods Job Corps. courtesy of Flatwoods Job Corps. don’t know and are afraid to be that I’m doing a good job. I’ve The positive influence of these the top five,” emphasizes Han- successful.” become more humble and more changes is reflected in student na. Flatwoods Job Corps’ motto of respectful towards others.” performance over the last three “saving lives and making the program years--the overall aver- When graduates arrive in the country better,” teaches its stu- Over 30% of Flatwoods’ stu- age increase in Flatwoods GED/ office of Career Development dents not to fear success. dents have a disability or need HSD attainment is 27%. Specialist Kelly Tickles, the dedi- some type of accommodation. cation and hard work that Flat- Where before Flatwoods Job Principal Teacher Kim Wyrick, Early intervention regarding woods invests to prime its stu- Corps was trailing the pack, who joined the Flatwoods staff behavioral issues allows staff to dents for career success is communicating, working togeth- in 2009, initiated behavior inter- catch and address students’ apparent. er as one, and focusing on the vention meetings for students mental health challenges such best interests of the students not demonstrating progress and as homesickness and family A particularly successful partner- has transformed the Center into behavior meetings for student deaths. Each day the academic ship Tickles developed is with an institution that both the stu- receiving too many citations. “It staff report to the residential Huntington Ingalls Industries dents and staff can rightfully be allows us to identify students department on events that hap- Newport News Shipbuilding. “I proud. who need extra attention and pened during the day—they nev- had a graduate from the New- take them under our wing in a er just let anything go. port News area hired by the more compassionate manner,” shipyard. The hiring manager “Every teacher is willing to go says Wyrick. liked him so much that he called above and beyond to help a me and asked me if I had any Flatwoods graduates from student,” states Co-disability more like him,” says Tickles. all of the construction “Every teacher is willing Instructor Adrienne Tarter. But “I always work with the disability trades, including welders, to go above and beyond she adds, “We practice tough love--the staff is not here to win coordinator from a student’s sheet metal workers, ma- to help a student,” a popularity contest.” home area to see what type of rine painters, shipboard states Co-disability In- help they need after they leave services (fabrication), structor Adrienne Tarter. Twenty-three year old business the Center and a lot of students deck electricians, and clerical student Laura Hanna need a place to stay,” says Tick- But she adds, “We prac- can testify to this approach. "If pipe fitters, are employed les. After placing a graduate at at the shipyards. The tice tough love--the staff you want to change your life and the shipyard, Tickles gave her is not here to win a are tired of getting in trouble, money to allow her rent an starting hourly wage is popularity contest.” Flatwoods is a great place to apartment--with the caveat that $16.16 with full benefits come. I decided that life is too other relocating Flatwoods grad- and some students are short for all of the stupid things uates could stay at the apart- now making in the $25 —Adrienne Tarter I’ve been doing. I’ve stopped ment until they could afford a dollar per hour range. Disability Instructor smoking pot and straightened place of their own. “This started out my attitude and now I’m in a chain reaction and we now

Page 25 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier Oklahoma Wildlife Prairie Heritage Alliance Asks Treasure Lake Job Corps to Construct Chimney Sweep Birdhouse Kiosks Brad Caudill, Carpentry Instructor, Treasure Lake Job Corps

OWPHA wildlife habitat areas that are called "loops." Treasure Lake Job Corps stu- dents have volunteered to pre- cut all of the materials that OWPHA supplies. The class also pre-assembled parts of the bird- houses like the tower sections and the roof assembly from scratch frame work, decking, and shingling. When a project is close in proximity to the Center, Treasure Lake students will help construct the kiosks on-site. More info can be found at OWPHA’s website: Treasure Lake Job Corps students install a www.owpha.org. second Chimney Swift kiosk at the Tillman Treasure Lake Job Corps students help school children build Blue Bird houses at the annual OWPHA County Courthouse in Frederick, Oklahoma. The Treasure Lake Job Corps’ Hackberry Flat Day in Frederick, Oklahoma. Photo courtesy of Treasure Lake Job Corps. Photo courtesy of Treasure Lake Job Corps. carpentry trade also has volun- teered to help OWPHA with their houses. Once complete the annual “Hackberry Flat Day” ple skills conducting this volun- child takes the birdhouse home The Oklahoma Wildlife Prairie located in Frederick, Oklahoma. teer community service project. to hang on their property. This Heritage Alliance (OWPHA) has The carpentry students are sup- event is usually a lot of fun and requested the help of Treasure plied with materials which stu- Treasure Lake students get a More information on the Lake Job Corps in constructing dents use to pre-cut bluebird real sense of pride helping the 15 Chimney sweep birdhouse house kits. Carpentry students Oklahoma Wildlife Prairie children build their birdhouses. kiosks. These are not your typi- have operated a "make and Heritage Alliance’s Chim- Treasure Lake carpentry stu- cal “birdhouses.” They are four- take" bluebird house booth for ney Sweep birdhouses dents learn the production pro- teen feet tall and six feet wide. the past two years. School chil- can be found at OWPHA’s cess, manufacturing tech- These towers will be used as dren, and sometimes parents, niques, quality control, and peo- website: www.owpha.org information kiosks at the use the pre-cut kits to build bird-

Treasure Lake Job Corps Steps In to Assist Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Despite Closure Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office Treasure Lake Job Corps was one of the refuge's low-water The road had washed out and course of two days, helped pour happy to aid the Wichita Moun- crossing on Panther Creek that damaged vehicles several times. and smooth 16 cubic yards of tains Wildlife refuge address has been a problem for years. Treasure Lake students built 10- concrete for a low-water cross- foot by 10 foot panels and ing 70 feet long. hauled them to the Special Use Area. After setting up forms, the students tied rebar to reinforce the concrete and then, over the The Treasure Lake Job Corps Civilian Conserva- tion Center is located in Indiahoma, Oklahoma. The Center employs a staff of 50 and has the capacity provide vocational training to 180 students in a residential Treasure Lake Job Corps carpentry students pour a low-water crossing over Panther Creek in the environment. Special Use area of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in November 2014. The wildlife refuge is Treasure Lake carpentry students lay out forms. operated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Photo courtesy of The Lawton Constitution. Photo courtesy of The Lawton Constitution.

Page 26 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Ouachita Job Corps’ Urban Forestry Program is a Popular Resource for the Hot Springs Community Rickey Litzsey, Works Program Officer, Ouachita Job Corps

approached Ouachita Job Corps Today the Ouachita Urban For- to assist with the construction of estry program still responds to a city environmental park and numerous requests for assis- tree maintenance as a service tance on urban forestry pro- project. jects and invitations to stu- The park features more than two dents to lecture on tree care. miles of hiking and biking trails, a 1000-foot wildlife conservation trail, a playground and a handi- The Urban Forestry crew capped-accessible fishing board- performs tree care cleanup walk. Urban Forestry students duty across the center daily. participate in several annual It wasn’t long before they local elementary school educa- tion programs that teach and earned the title as being the demonstrate to school children “hardest working crew on the importance of trees and tree center.” Ouachita Job Corps Urban Forestry students care for trees throughout Hot Springs, Arkansas. Photo care. courtesy of Ouachita Job Corps.

Under the leadership of Les Arnold, the Urban Forestry voca- tional training program was Ouachita Job Corps Facts established at Ouachita Job Corps in 1996. Arnold was in- Students: 160 strumental in starting the same program at Golconda Job Corps Vocational Trades: several years earlier. The program has been a suc-  Office Administration cess and Urban Forestry stu-  Union Bricklaying dents stand out wearing their  Union Carpentry bright orange shirts, walking  Union Cement Masonry around the center in single file  Union Painting everywhere they go. The Urban  Union Plastering Forestry crew perform tree care  Urban Forestry Ouachita Job Corps Urban Forestry students perform work at the Entergy Park Arbor Day event. Photo cleanup duty across the center  Welding courtesy of Pam Cockrell. daily. It wasn’t long before they earned the title as being the “hardest working crew on cen- ter.” Word got out to the various incorporate tree removal work Forest Service ranger districts into the program training and that the Ouachita Urban Forest- now Ouachita Urban Forestry ry program was searching for students routinely perform tree projects to help give the stu- removal throughout the city dents training opportunities, streets and parks. while at the same time assisting Garvin Woodlands Gardens, a with the maintenance of the 210 acre botanical garden do- national forest. nated to the Department of Soon after, the City of Hot Landscape Architecture also has Springs Parks, Recreation and requested help from the pro- Street Department asked the gram on a continuous basis. students to assist in removing When Entergy Arkansas donated storm damaged trees. Les 30 acres on the shores of Lake Ouachita Job Corps Urban Forestry students plant flowers at St. Joseph Hospital in Hot Springs, jumped at the opportunity to Hamilton, the City of Hot Springs Arkansas. Photo courtesy of Pam Cockrell.

Page 27 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

National Professional Angler’s Association Works with Forest Service to Get Job Corps Students Hooked on Fishing Clara Johnson, Job Corps Liaison, Forest Service Region 8/9 Challenge Cost-Share Agree- a volunteer basis. For him, it’s cludes both hands-on and class- ment with the NPAA, partners about “giving back to the people room instruction that covers the to educate the nation’s youth who introduced him to the joy following: on conservation, stewardship and sport of fishing.” He said • Safety of natural resources, and recre- there’s nothing like the look of ational uses of North America’s joy and accomplishment in a • How to use their equipment fish and wildlife. young person’s eyes when they • Casting and handling fish hook their first fish! Greg said The NPAA is passionate about his goal is to ensure every stu- hooking young people on fish- • Tying knots dent catches a fish that day. ing. In 2012, they formed a Certified Angler Instructor Greg Karch and Blackwell • Catch and release techniques Job Corps students. Photo courtesy of Clara Johnson. new not-for-profit – The Future Karch is a world-class fisherman Angler Foundation – designed and is considered a celebrity in • Identifying the variety of fish The Eastern Region of the For- to engage potential new an- the fishing world. He’s been in species est Service and the National glers of all ages, races and featured in several magazines. • Preventing the spread of Professional Angler’s Associa- gender to the sport of fishing “June is a great time to catch aquatic invasive species tion (NPAA) will coordinate two while protecting the resource. Bluegill and small-mouthed fishing clinics with 30 Blackwell bass,” says Greg. “It’s going to • Sportsmanship and angler Greg Karch, a Certified Angler Job Corps Center students and be an amazing day. I am doing courtesy Instructor and past Chair of the Stedman Graham on June 12, what I love most – helping young NPAA Future Angler Committee, 2015. The clinics will be held on people develop a passion for will be leading the fishing clinic Bear Lake located on the fishing and for natural re- You can learn more about Greg and classroom instruction. Chequamegon-Nicolet National sources.” and view online videos at: Forest near Laona, Wisconsin. Greg has hosted 37 clinics in The adventure-filled day in- www.Learn2FishWithUs.com The Forest Service, under a the past year which he does on

Frenchburg Job Corps “Firebirds” Fire Team Continue Earn Qualifications Despite Dormitory Fire Bradley Adkins, Career Preparation Coordinator, Frenchburg Job Corps

training (PT), only 14 all of them gained their fire cer- Kentucky, the Firebirds have students remained tification. They were no longer been involved in many projects and firefighting train- Job Corps students. . .they were and continually volunteer their ing was scheduled for Firebirds. time in the community. these committed One week after the training, They also have worked local students. During the they received a call to deploy to fires in Kentucky on the Daniel training period, the California to the King Wildfire as Boone National Forest, lead the students agreed that part of an interagency crew. The PT for upcoming cadets and their call name Firebirds worked as a unit and stay ready for that next call. should be "Firebirds". became even closer Then on September as a team. 5, 2014, the Friday They worked in rug- before training, a Nineteen potential Frenchburg Job Corps firefighters listen ged terrain for long attentively to instructors during classroom instruction a week after student dormitory hours but remained caught fire, burned to diligent in their ef- In August of 2014, students the ground and was a total loss. forts. This led to a signed a statement of interest Even during this emotionally fully successful eval- sheet for the Frenchburg Job trying time, these students uation and left a Corps Fire Team. Forty-six stu- wanted the fire training more lasting impression dents attended the first meeting than ever. and began physical training (PT) on the Forest Service with Career Preparation Officer The following week during the staff that were on Brad Adkins. training, the fire students were the team with the early to class every day, were Firebirds. (L to R) Frenchburg firefighters Brad Adkins, Damian Abbott, Dwasken Porter, and Jacob Pope mop up on the King Wildfire in After three weeks of physical engaged in class discussion and California. Photo courtesy of Robert Ross. Since returning to

Page 28 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

Washington Office Staff—Get Out Into the Field and Get Your Nails Dirty! Michaela Hall, Program Specialist, Washington Office Fire and Aviation Management DVR is made up of Job Corps Another reason that DVR students. These trainees come rocked is because it challeng- from all over the United States es you beyond all expectations. Speaking of Washington and are a testament to the Sure you’ll walk for miles carry- Office, it seems like this diversity of the program. ing line gear, eat smoke for title raised suspicions of There’s much talk about creat- hours, and go days without ing a Forest Service that re- bathing. But, I’m not talking many I met on the road. I flects the public, and Davidson about basic firefighting chal- think that shows the need River is actually producing re- lenges. This crew takes it up a for more Washington sults. I wanted to get a notch. Student trainees under- Office employees to get firsthand look at how you can take challenging leadership in the field and get their take a group of people who are opportunities such as land nails dirty. I also think it so different and teach them to navigation exercises, drafting means more people from work together. DVR Leadership burn plans and mock Manage- the field need to pull out made it a point to create per- ment roles. Constant changes Sunday’s best and get to Michaela Hall in Ocala, Florida on assignment sonal development experienc- of Crew/Squad Boss Trainees with the Davidson River Initial Attack Crew in the Washington Office. January 2014. Photo courtesy of Robert Cota. es for the trainees including teach students to be flexible introducing students to cultur- and to work under different This detail was a way for ally diverse foods, music and leadership styles. me to see how the poli- people. cies initiated in my office I was hired as Fire and Aviation Careful training and prepara- affect those who imple- Management, Workforce Pro- It was magical. I witnessed a tion has created a reputation gram Specialist because of my self-proclaimed cheeseburger that reaches across Region 8. ment them on the Job Corps background and pre- fanatic enjoy an Indian curry This Crew is in high demand ground. I saw the vious work in outreach and re- dish. On another day, I saw a and Forests are consistently “disconnect” in action. cruitment initiatives. But, work- Black student from the “hood” pleased with the work accom- ing in Fire without fire experi- singing a Country song at the plished. I felt like was riding —Michaela Hall ence is like a hardhat without a top of his lungs. A student from with a group of celebrities get- Program Specialist chinstrap. It just isn't right. Hawaii taught me how to open ting all the privileges that nor- a coconut and then shared the mal people only dream of. In So, I was on a mission to gain fruit with me. These experienc- addition to participating in over experience and credibility in the es continued for the duration of 46,000 acres of prescribed Fire world. There were several it seems like this title raised the trip as people broke burns and over 7,600 acres of options, but I couldn’t have suspicions of many I met on the through barriers and grew into wildfire, Not bad for a career made a better choice than the road. I think that shows the a better crew and better hu- Washington Office employee. Davidson River (DVR) Initial need for more Washington Of- man beings. Attack Crew. Here’s why: Speaking of Washington Office, fice employees to get in the field and get their nails dirty. I also think it means more people Write a Job Corps Success Story for the Courier! from the field need to pull out Alicia D. Bennett, Public Affairs Officer, Job Corps National Office Sunday’s best and get to the Help tell the story of Forest Ser- in .jpeg format with your story. information for photo captions: Washington Office. This detail vice Job Corps and create a last- A good photo will convey the Name of individuals (L to R); was a way for me to see how the ing record of what Job Corps essence of what you want peo- Activity/project captured in pho- policies initiated in my office students accomplish each and ple to remember. As they say, to; Name of photographer for affect those who implement every day. “A picture is worth a thousand photo credit; Physical location them on the ground. I saw the words.” where photo was taken; Day/ “disconnect” in action. A good story will answer the Month/Year photo was taken if questions of what happened, Provide captions for your photo- There is still much work to be available when did it take place, who was graphs. A reader wants the done, but with these kinds of involved, why was it done, where answers to the following ques- Please submit your story in APA details, employees are able to did it take place and how did it tions: Who is that?; What’s going Style and Franklin Gothic Book develop an appreciation for the happen. Describe the accom- on?, When and where was this?, font size nine. work of other employees. And plishment, internal and external How did this occur? Your audi- learning to appreciate the work Call Alicia D. Bennett at 303- partners and why your story is ence wants to understand your of other employees is a good 275-5934 or send an e-mail to: significant. picture. policy for the Forest Service. It [email protected] describing fits better than a hardhat with a Submit high quality photographs Please provide the following the story you would like to write chinstrap. and to discuss its placement.

Page 29 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

What Can Civilian Conservations Centers Do For Your National Forests or Grasslands?

Sample Work Forest Service Job Corps Civilian Conservation Centers The Forest Service is facing critical shortages of workers. Job Corps is an ideal source from which to recruit and improve the diversity of its permanent workforce. The partnership between the Forest and JCCCCs can National Forest Systems benefit both parties through development of work-based learning (WBL) opportunities that provide on-the Recreation -job training for students and help the Forest Service meet mission critical project goals. Looking to add  Trail construction, trail maintenance professional, trained, youthful, diverse staff to your project or office? Forest Service Job Corps Civilian  Recreation Site improvements: painting (signs, picnic tables), Conservation Center students or Mobile Corps can be a valuable addition to your next project. facilities maintenance, construction, brush removal, mowing, trailhead maintenance) Mobile Corps projects are larger scale, multi-student and/or multi-center projects. These projects have ranged from painting/maintenance at Grey Towers Historical site, building smaller buildings and  Installation of picnic tables, fire rings campsite projects, to the construction of ranger stations and staff housing. A formal application process  Kiosk construction and installation must be completed for project consideration.

Forestry Job Corps students are eligible for federal employment. As students they can be hired using the Pathways  Pre-commercial thinning, tree planting, timber marking Program. They may also qualify for the Public Lands Corps Act (PLC). Students are able to compete  Stream maintenance -gabion installations through the traditional federal hiring but using these two authorities might expedite JCCCC student hiring. Contact Cyndi Szymanski at 303-275-5074 or e-mail at :[email protected] for additional  Nursery work -tree lifting and packing, seedling planting information.  Cone Collection

Wildlife/Fisheries/Hydrology/Soils  Install Inserts for Red Cockcaded Woodpecker  Boundary marking of Red Cockcaded Woodpecker area  Snag/Grouse drumming log creation  Mid-story removal  Gabion installations  Infestation surveys

Engineering Pine Ridge camp crews traveled to Boulder, Colorado to assist victims of  Carpentry, painting the 2013 Colorado Flood. Photo courtesy of Pine Ridge Job Corps.  Heavy equipment repair and maintenance, auto maintenance  Electrical, plumbing, welding  Brick and concrete masonry  Fashion stone foundations for forest portal signs Oconaluftee Job Corps forestry students analyze  Stream inventory and determine the best method to remove tree branches. Photo courtesy of Oconaluftee Job  Boundary/landline location, marking, inspection and mainte- Corps. nance  Road Maintenance - sawing and chipping for site clearance on FS roads

 Greening of Job Corps Centers, Research Stations, and District Curlew Job Corps painting students make sure that Colville National Offices Forest signage looks new and shiny. Photo courtesy of Curlew Job Corps.

Administrative  Front desk operator /services  Data input, clerical, computer installation (Job Corps IT Team), record keeping

State and Private Forestry  Fire suppression, rehab, mop-up, catering  Prescribed fire Research  Data collection Anaconda Job Corps constructs an impressive bridge as part of “Make a Columbia Basin Facilities Maintenance student  Inventory Difference Day.” Photo courtesy of Anaconda Job Corps. installs underground drainage pipes. Photo courtesy of Columbia Basin Job Corps.

Page 30 Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center Courier

1964 — 2014 Job Corps is the nation’s natural resources, continued Alicia D. Bennett largest residential, educa- education or military service. Public Affairs Officer/Editor Conserving America’s USDA Forest Service Job Corps tional, and career technical The JCCCCs provide a unique 740 Simms Street Natural Resources training program that pre- opportunity for at-risk youth to Golden, CO 80401 pares economically disad- take control of and steer their Phone: 303-275-5934 for 50 Years vantaged youth, ranging in lives in a positive direction and Fax: 303-275-5940 contribute to the conservation E-mail: [email protected] age from 16 to 24, for pro- ductive employment. USDA of the nation’s public natural Forest Service operates 28 resources. JCCCCs are associ- To subscribe to the Courier, send your Job Corps Civilian Conserva- ated with national forests or e-mail address to: tion Centers (JCCCCs) with a grasslands and are operated [email protected]

capacity to house, educate, by the United States Depart- We’re On the Web: and train over 5,200 enrol- ment of Agriculture (USDA) http://fsweb.jc.wo.fs.fed.us/ lees. Students attend aca- Forest Service in partnership demic and vocational clas- with the Department of Labor ses and learn critical life (DOL). skills in preparation for long- term employment, careers in