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Nicholas
Nicholas
Construction
Graduated From: Cleveland
Training Area:
Carpentry
Current Employer: United States Army, Fort Jackson, South Carolina
Advice to future JC Students:

"Job Corps is a chance to enter the workforce as an educated individual who has the potential to start a career in a world where college isn't an option for everyone."


Nicolas Hassel had become homeless in 2019 and was seeking a different future. He didn’t have many options but knew he was ready for change. Taking the advice of his sister, Nicolas enrolled at Cleveland Job Corps in Ohio, where he could get training in a specific field and have a safe place to live. He pursued Carpentry training and received the hands-on training he needed for a successful career.

Over the course of 7 months, Nicholas became very involved on center and in the community. He obtained credentials in Carpentry and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). He also participated in several community service events, worked with children at the Collinwood Community Center, and was a member of Guided Steps.

“The best thing about Job Corps training is that the instructors try their best to prepare you for the workforce and day-to-day operations.”

Nicolas is grateful for his instructors and friends who helped him throughout his time on center. It was because of Nicolas’ commitment to his future, the dedicated instructors, and the support of his friends that he was able to leave the homeless shelter and find a home at Job Corps.

On Feb. 17, 2020, Nicholas successfully completed the Carpentry training program at Cleveland Job Corps. Nicholas started a career in the United States Army on Feb. 24, 2020, at Fort Jackson in South Carolina. Nicolas joined the Underwater Welding program. Nicolas is able to use the technical and interpersonal skills he acquired at Job Corps in his new career.