After his mother passed away in 2022, Daniel was unemployed. Having lived in Florida for a couple of years, he returned to Chicago where he utilized the Howard & Evanston Community Center to work on his resume and job search. Someone at that organization was aware that Daniel had a background in computer numerical control (CNC) and recommended Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC). Daniel also became connected with JARC through Truman College and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Daniel soon enrolled in JARC Chicago’s CNC program. He says that the technical aspects, especially software, were his favorite part of the program. In addition to class, Daniel visited JARC to network and use the computer and other resources. Daniel attended 13 employment coaching sessions, four financial coaching sessions, and two income support sessions. He attended nine workshops, covering the topics of interview skills, digital literacy skills, investing, finances, and resume writing, and had access to outside legal counseling. Daniel says that JARC also provided a stipend and work equipment, outfits, and shoes.
”“[I] never was turned away with a question or [when I] needed help."
DanielJARC Chicago, CNC Graduate
Since graduating from the CNC program and receiving his National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certification in 2024, Daniel has found a job that he loves. He works as a CNC operator setting up machines and machining parts at Star Hydraulics & Pneumatics in River Grove, IL. Daniel describes it as a high-end industrial, automotive, and transportation company that makes mostly industrial hydraulic equipment, including jacks for carts used for pulling airplanes off runways. The company purchased a “three quarters of a million-dollar machine and…they won’t let anybody run it yet, except for me,” he shares proudly.
When asked what JARC means to him, Daniel’s answer speaks volumes: “family,” he states decisively.
To fulfill his current career goals, Daniel has chosen to continue his education at JARC. He hopes to pursue computer-aided design (CAD) and to do so, is now taking a CAD class offered by JARC. Daniel wants to work more in the engineering and design areas, and obtain more advanced technical and software skills. He believes that the CAD class will provide the foundation for that and create more opportunities for him.
The greatest lesson that Daniel learned while at JARC was about the fluctuating nature of CNC machining and the importance of adaptability. When asked what advice he would give to someone applying to JARC, Daniel recommends taking in everything, honoring one’s own pace, and being patient.
Daniel found a strong sense of community at JARC. He appreciates the welcoming environment that the organization provided, particularly noting holiday gatherings. Daniel says that at JARC, the people are fantastic and that he always had positive experiences. He “never was turned away with a question or [when I] needed help,” he shares.
When asked what JARC means to him, Daniel’s answer speaks volumes: “family,” he states decisively. “I can’t say enough about it” he says, and expresses that he is deeply grateful for JARC.
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