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Monthly Archives

December 2024

Emily
In Chicago, Success Stories

Jovani’s Success Story

Jovani, a welder at Freedman Seating Company and a student at Triton College, is a perfect example of how JARC can help transform careers. Since connecting with JARC in 2018, Jovany has been on a steady path of growth, turning his job in welding into a true passion and setting his sights on even bigger goals for the future. 

Before JARC, Jovani worked as a welder at a manufacturing company that had clients like Tesla. It was here that he started working with advanced manufacturing robots. “When I saw a robot do the work, I thought, ‘Hey, I could do that too!’” he said, and that sparked his desire to learn more. His curiosity led him to JARC, where he discovered the training and support he needed to take his skills to the next level. 

”"JARC helped me dive deeper into my passion for welding."

At JARC, Jovani quickly realized there was a lot more to welding than just laying down a bead. “I thought welding was simple, but there’s actually a lot of math involved,” he said. “JARC offered tutoring in math, which helped me understand the dimensions and precision I needed in my work.” Learning how to read blueprints at JARC also gave him a solid foundation that has helped him in his college courses at Triton. During his time at JARC, Jovani received 17 employment coaching sessions, along with 2 income support sessions and 2 financial coaching sessions. He also participated in 20 workshops focused on job readiness, interview skills, digital literacy, and financial literacy. 

The impact on Jovani’s career has been huge.

When he first started, he was earning $17 an hour; today, he makes $21.40 an hour and is learning how to program robotic welders. His time at JARC taught him valuable lessons about work ethics, too. “I give 110% every day on the job,” he shared, crediting JARC’s emphasis on punctuality and commitment for helping him develop a strong work ethic. 

Jovani’s story doesn’t end there. Thanks to JARC’s support, he’s now dreaming bigger than ever—he plans to start his own welding business.

“JARC helped me dive deeper into my passion for welding,” he said. He’s even taking entrepreneurship classes with the City of Chicago to prepare for his future as a business owner. 

Looking back on his journey, Jovany says, “Welding is like my signature—I want to feel proud of my work.” With the skills he’s gaining through JARC’s hands-on Saturday classes, Jovani is staying connected to his craft while preparing for a bright future in welding and business. His story is a great example of how JARC can help individuals unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams. 

Emily
In Rhode Island, Success Stories

Sarajane’s – Success Story

Sarajane’s story exemplifies resilience and the pursuit of stability. She immigrated to the United States from South Africa in 2004 with an educational background in IT but found it challenging to secure a stable job in her field. With limited employment opportunities and unable to pursue IT work, she ended up working night shifts at a homeless shelter.

Barely earning enough to make ends meet, she faced a crossroad. As Sarajane put it, she was “in a season where I needed to figure out my next step financially and career-wise.” She felt her options were limited: either find a better-paying job or seek training to secure a sustainable career. Then, a friend introduced her to the Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC RI) and its CNC Machining Program in Rhode Island. Sarajane immediately saw the potential to build on her IT foundation.

”“I have a background in programming, and when I heard about G-coding, I thought, ‘I know some coding—this could be a natural next step.’”

Sarajane

”Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “You’re not going to lose; you’re going to gain. This is truly a great opportunity to better your life. These skills will take you further.

Sarajane

JARC’s Bridge Program provided her with the math skills needed for CNC machining, with tutoring and supportive instructors, like Galina, who helped her regain confidence in her math abilities. Sarajane recalled, “I didn’t realize how rusty my math was… the bridge program really opened my eyes.”

Throughout her journey with JARC, Sarajane received more than technical training. She was also supported with weekly transportation vouchers and assistance for essential bills, reducing her financial worries and enabling her to focus on her training.

Today, Sarajane is a machinist in Providence, one of the first graduates from JARC Rhode Island’s CNC program.

Her aspirations reach even further as she dreams of one day becoming an engineer: “I want to be the one designing blueprints and writing G-codes for companies.”

Sarajane’s story underscores JARC’s impact on individuals and the manufacturing industry, providing critical skills for promising careers.

As Sarajane said, “This industry is truly one where you can build a career and have many opportunities,” and her path from a shelter night shift to a skilled machinist is a testament to the power of opportunity and support.

Andrea Tovar
In Uncategorized

Thank You to Showtime Photo Booth for Making Our Next Events Picture-Perfect!

We’re thrilled to have a photo spot at our event, provided by Showtime Photo Booth. Since 2013, they’ve been making photo experiences memorable in Indianapolis, Phoenix, San Antonio, and Orlando. With more than 27 photo setups, guests are sure to have a great time at festivals, weddings, and corporate events.

”"JARC worked with me all the way through the financial coaching, the soft skills classes on Fridays, and the hands-on training with welding

Tonce
Emily
In Manufacturing Matters

Why Skilled Labor is the Backbone of the Manufacturing Industry

The manufacturing industry plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and technological advancement. At its core, skilled laborers—such as CNC machinists, welders, and robotics technicians—are the backbone of this sector.

These workers possess specialized knowledge and training that allow them to operate complex machinery, troubleshoot issues, and maintain high production standards. As manufacturing technologies evolve, the demand for skilled workers only grows.

The Value of Skilled Labor

Skilled labor involves workers who perform tasks that cannot easily be automated. In manufacturing, these roles require technical expertise and the ability to adapt to changing technologies. Whether it’s programming CNC machines for precise machining, ensuring the structural integrity of products through welding, or troubleshooting robotic systems, skilled laborers are critical to maintaining the efficiency and quality of production.

Efficiency and Productivity

Skilled workers significantly boost efficiency and productivity. With their advanced training, they can operate machines more precisely, reducing errors and minimizing downtime. For instance, CNC machinists are responsible for programming machines that produce intricate parts, while welders ensure the structural integrity of key components. Their expertise prevents costly rework and ensures smooth, high-quality production.

 

Adapting to Technological Change

With the rise of Industry 4.0, skilled labor is more important than ever. Advanced technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics require knowledgeable workers to operate and maintain sophisticated systems. For example, as robotics becomes more prevalent in manufacturing, skilled technicians are needed to install, maintain, and repair these systems. Additionally, AI-driven production lines require workers who can interpret data and optimize performance in real-time.

Training programs, such as those offered by JARC, equip individuals with skills in CNC machining, welding, and robotics, ensuring that they are prepared to meet the demands of today’s advanced manufacturing environment.

Job Stability and Economic Impact

Skilled labor not only provides stable, well-paying jobs but also promotes economic stability. Manufacturing jobs often serve as a path to financial independence, especially in economically challenged communities. A skilled workforce enables companies to compete globally, attract investment, and contribute to local economies.

At JARC, we see firsthand how equipping individuals with in-demand skills transforms lives and communities. As more people gain access to high-quality training, they secure stable employment and help bridge the skills gap in the manufacturing industry.

The Future of Skilled Labor in Manufacturing

As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, the role of skilled labor will only grow. The rapid pace of technological change means that workers will need ongoing upskilling and reskilling to remain competitive. Employers will increasingly seek out workers with the technical skills needed to adapt to innovations in automation, robotics, and AI.

At JARC, we are committed to preparing workers for the future of manufacturing. Our training programs focus not only on technical skills but also on critical thinking and problem-solving—skills essential to thriving in the ever-changing manufacturing landscape.

Skilled labor is the backbone of the manufacturing industry, driving efficiency, innovation, and economic growth. As the industry continues to evolve, the need for highly trained workers who can operate and maintain advanced machinery is more important than ever. JARC is proud to train the next generation of skilled laborers, ensuring a strong and competitive future for manufacturing.

For more information on how JARC can help you start or advance your career in manufacturing, visit our website www.jarctraining.org today.