Job Corps prepared Gabe Mendoza for a successful future in several ways beyond career training. Gabe says it taught him how to reflect on himself and gain skills in working with others.
“I have learned how to process my emotions, which I believe has contributed in a big way to my success. Overall, I have never had so much control over my mind.”
He now works at Kincaid’s Fish, Chop and Steakhouse, and is the youngest cook there.
“Because of Job Corps, I didn’t have to start at the beginning, such as a dishwasher, and work my way up. I started as a line cook, which is a very high position at my work. Job Corps really prepared me. It also helped me expand my horizons. I wouldn’t be able to have the job I have now without the knowledge I learned at the center.”
Gabe had a hard time finding work until his twin sister told him about Job Corps. She encouraged him to enroll at the Hubert H. Humphrey Job Corps Center in St. Paul, Minn. Once Gabe heard about all the career opportunities and benefits available, he knew Job Corps was the right place for him.
The skills he gained in Job Corps’ Culinary Arts program—cooking and baking techniques, calculating measurements, inspecting and cleaning food preparation areas, and more—are what inspired him to work in the culinary field and get to where he is today.
Graduated from Job Corps in: November 9, 2018