Julian Gray-Ferrer had a major goal for his future—to start and operate his own heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) company. He knew Job Corps would help him gain the technical skills needed to reach his goal. What Julian wasn’t expecting was that he would acquire interpersonal skills that would become just as important.
Along with the technical skills he received with Job Corps, Julian learned valuable employment skills such as time management, effective communication, interview best practices, and the importance of being punctual and prepared.
Julian enrolled at Charleston Job Corps in 2016. While on campus, he got involved with several activities and gained leadership experience. He was part of the Student Government Association and held top positions, including treasurer, sergeant at arms, vice president, and president. Julian was also active in intramural sports, playing on the basketball, football, softball, soccer, and bowling teams.
Julian finished his training at Charleston Job Corps in 2019, completing the Network Cable Installation, HVAC, and Office Administration programs. He then attended BridgeValley Community and Technical College through the center’s Advanced Career training program to study business and entrepreneurship.
Julian is now working for Del-Air HVAC company in Sanford, Fla., as a service and installation technician. He is also continuing his education at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Fla., to complete a business degree.
“I honestly can say, since I left Charleston Job Corps, life has been getting better and more opportunities are arising.”
With the experience, training, and education he’s received, Julian is focused more than ever on his major goal: “to have my own HVAC business.”
Graduated from Job Corps in: 2019 Employer: Service and Installation Technician, Del-Air HVAC company, Sanford, FL; College Student, Full Sail University, Winterpark, FL Hometown: Herndon, Virginia Phone: 304-414-6530 Email: shepherd.nancy@jobcorps.org Notes:
Source: Center Newsletter (5.6.2020)