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.
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