“Absolutely nothing.”
Crystal Madrigal reflected on what she was doing before enrolling at Job Corps. She was sick of working dead-end jobs with no opportunity in sight for advancing her career.
In spring of 2019, Crystal was searching for a new path when a family member recommended Job Corps.
She enrolled in Security and Protective Services training at Gary Job Corps Center in Texas.
With determination, Crystal advanced quickly in her training with a goal to attain several credentials before graduating. Then the pandemic hit, and she had to make a total shift to virtual, distance learning. Despite the obstacles she faced, Crystal pushed forward and completed all her online training and earned a high school diploma. 
As the pandemic slowed and Gary Job Corps welcomed students back to campus, she picked up right where she’d left off. She greatly enjoyed serving as dorm president in the Student Government Association and working for the TABE® testing center on campus. Crystal also participated in work-based learning through Allied Universal Security at the San Marcos Amazon fulfillment center.
“The first few months were tough. Quarantining and distance learning were even tougher. Finding community and continuing to work toward my dream helped me push through the hard times.”
Upon graduation, Crystal was hired full time and found her first apartment within walking distance of her new job with help from her instructors. She now works in security for GardaWorld with fellow Job Corps graduates.
Graduated from Job Corps in: May 2021 Employer: GardaWorld Hometown: Mission, Texas Phone: 956-802-3388 Email: crystalmadrigal732@gmail.com Submitted by: Lydia Henry Notes:
Source: Center – Susanne Ritter, Gary Job Corps