“Just because of where you start, doesn’t mean you have to finish there. You can change.”
Timothy Braddock is a chief in the United States Navy. He currently leads a team of 42 people helping those with catastrophic injuries. He’s using 100% of the skills he learned through Job Corps in his job today. Before Timothy’s success in the military, life looked a bit different.
Timothy grew up in a rough neighborhood and wasn’t interested in going to school. He worked at McDonald’s but was seeking something more. He was very interested in joining the military; however, you need a 50 on the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test), and Timothy previously scored a 49, 49 and 48. He went to the recruiter who explained to him about Job Corps. Success was coming his way.
“There is an avenue for you to go …. I’m grateful.”
Timothy enrolled in Gerald R. Ford Job Corps at 18 years old and trained in the Certified Nurse Assistant program. Within two weeks, Timothy received his GED. While Timothy was only on campus for a short time, he took advantage of the opportunity. He made several friends, was involved in a mentorship program and volunteered in the community.
“You can go there and get your GED. You can get your high school diploma, and you can go to college.”
Job Corps staff were super helpful, and after six months, Timothy was ready for the military. He mentions he would have stayed longer at Job Corps and completed two years of training, but he was needed in the military. His time had come.
“It’s what you make it. Every time I post on a Job Corps post, I always say it works.”
Timothy’s been to 20 countries, worked everywhere, went to war and continued his education. Everything he learned at Job Corps became useful in the real world.
Timothy furthered his education and earned his associate degree and bachelor’s degree in psychology from American Public University. He is currently working on his doctorate in clinical psychology. Timothy is nearing retirement from the military and aspires to complete his doctoral program and do counseling as a clinical psychologist.
“It’s what you make it. If you give 100% effort, you will get more effort given back to you; but you have to show you want it.”
Graduated from Job Corps in: 2001 Employer: Chief; United States Navy; San Antonio, Texas Hometown: Saginaw, Mich. Phone: 904-729-5247 Email: timothy.c.braddock.mil@mail.mil Submitted by: Becca Sweredoski