Success Stories

He worked on improving his math skills before being able to write codes and run them on the machines. He also got transportation assistance and employment coaching to help him prepare for his interviews. “I got really nervous about going for my first interview. JARC helped me work through it, and I was able to go and get my job. I was shocked!” Jim started working in November 2022 at a local machine store in Owings Mills. He is working as a CNC operator, where he is able to look at the code and the program. He mentioned that his company is helping him learn even more so he will be able to actually make changes to the program. “I’m 59 years old, and I just feel like this is a completely new way of working, so I’m in no hurry. I will do what they say and follow their direction, and I will eventually be operating on my own, independently”. When we asked him what his favorite part of being a CNC operator was, he said, “The nice thing with CNC is that there’s a right answer. This is how it’s done. This is what you do, step by step by step. There’s nothing arbitrary or ambiguous.

As a social worker, there wasn’t always a right answer, and I’m not saying that I won’t struggle with solutions as a CNC operator, but there are different types of solutions and different types of problems, more concrete and less ambiguous, I think.” He also told us that his goal is to become a valued employee and learn as much as he can. “JARC had helped me physically, but it also helped me mentally to focus, to concentrate, to discipline my attention, and to be present in the moment. I always tell people it’s not too late. We get a lot of guys who come into the shelter who are my age or maybe a little younger. But they feel like it’s too late, and then they just give up. And certainly, my head tells me that occasionally, just give up; you’re too old. But, you know, I’m still in relatively good physical health. I could still learn new things. Teach an old dog new tricks!” When we asked him what he would say to someone who was planning to come to JARC, he said, “Why not? What do you have to lose? You know, I think JARC is great. I think it’s a great program, and you can get a solid job. Why not look into it?

She was given gas cards to cover her commute, steel-toed boots, and prescription safety glasses. In addition, she benefited from 15 employment coaching sessions, 3 financial coaching sessions, and 1 session of income support counseling. She also attended 8 workshops on topics like digital literacy, savings, and finances. After completing her training, Olivia landed a job at S&C Electric, working in the metal finishing department. “The job is challenging but rewarding. Starting at $24 per hour with opportunities for raises and advancement is fantastic.” Olivia enjoys her role and appreciates the company’s commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth. “S&C is a great place to work. They offer various ways to earn more and learn new skills,” she says.

Olivia didn’t stop at looking for a job; she returned to JARC for Saturday classes to continue her professional development. “I love coming back to JARC. It’s a great way to see my friends and learn new techniques like TIG welding,” she shares. Looking to the future, Olivia has clear goals. “I want to gain experience at S&C and eventually move into pipe fitting. Long-term, I hope to buy a house and retire comfortably,” she says. Her experience with JARC has been transformative. “JARC gave me a solid start in a field I’m passionate about. I have no debt and a promising career. If someone is considering JARC, I’d say go for it. It’s an incredible opportunity,” Olivia concludes.

“The fast-paced nature of manufacturing was tough at first, but the skills I learned at JARC, especially the ability to be self-reliant, helped me adapt quickly.” Even after finding a job, Dash remained committed to his professional growth and continued his education at JARC by enrolling in Saturday classes. “I wanted to stay connected with my classmates and continue learning. When James reached out about a TIG welding class, I jumped at the opportunity,” Dash explains.

Looking ahead, Dash is excited about his future. He aspires to gain more experience at S&C Electric, potentially join a union, and eventually own a home. “I want to eventually move out into maybe an apartment. It would be wonderful to save up enough money to skip the whole first apartment and go straight into owning a house,” he says.

Augustino credits JARC for equipping him with essential tools for the manufacturing world, including valuable soft and hard skills. Reflecting on his time at JARC, he said, “This place definitely gave me a great start in the industry.” After years of success in his field, Augustino felt compelled to give back to JARC, the place that shaped him into the professional he is today.

“I want people to know about this trade. I want to share my real-world experience,” he said. Eager to pass on his knowledge, he began discussions with JARC staff about teaching classes. He believes the industry needs talented, dedicated workers to help it thrive, stating, “This industry needs creative, outstanding individuals who can take it to the next level.” Looking ahead, Augustino plans to pursue consulting work and eventually open his own shop.

When asked to summarize the JARC program in one sentence, Raul said, “JARC is a big family.” Throughout the program, his self-confidence grew significantly, and he felt that the instructors truly cared about the students. “Since I started the program, I’ve become more confident in talking to others. Now, I feel like I have more opportunities and doors opening for me. I’m unstoppable,” Raul added.

Since graduating from JARC, Raul has continued to learn new skills and is also taking TOEFL classes at Rhode Island College. His goal is to improve his English and return to college to pursue an engineering degree. With his newly acquired skills and confidence, Raul is achieving his dreams every single day. Raul advises anyone considering the program to “do some research about manufacturing, be open to talking to everyone—both classmates and instructors. You can learn from anyone.”

After completing the program, Tonce’ secured a job at Freedman Seating as a robotic welder. She was quickly promoted to shift lead and received an Individual Achievement Award from the Workplace Innovation and Opportunity Act Program. Despite her success in the welding industry, Tonce’ realized that her true calling lay elsewhere. She was able to leverage the soft skills and financial stability she had gained to smoothly transition into a new career in retail at Dollar Tree and later into housekeeping at Indiana Wesleyan University. Reflecting on her journey, Tonce’ emphasized the profound impact of JARC. “JARC was definitely my springboard that catapulted me to where I am now.” With the foundation she built at JARC, Tonce’ continued to grow, eventually starting her own business, Restored and Delivered Cleaning Company LLC. She attributes her resilience and adaptability to the skills and confidence she gained through JARC’s program. Tonce’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of supportive educational programs,

like JARC’s Careers in Manufacturing Programs. “If you’re ready to do the work and utilize your resources, JARC is the place to be.” Her journey from overcoming a difficult past to becoming a successful entrepreneur and valued employee demonstrates the life-changing impact that a dedicated support system can provide. Today, Tonce’ is thriving, both professionally and personally. She is now 54, and she is working on her savings to ensure a comfortable retirement.  She cherishes the time she spends with her grandchildren. Her story is a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone facing similar struggles, proving that with the right support and determination, it is possible to turn one’s life around completely. “No one can do the hard work for anyone. This is something that you have to do yourself, but JARC gives you the chance to make it happen.”