PRESTONSBURG — Around 82 local students from Martin County High School, Johnson Central High School and Paintsville Independent High School took their first step toward brighter futures Sept. 18 during a special Signing Day Event at the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center.
The day began with a warm welcome from security staff and students in the Basic Security program, who escorted the visitors into the gymnasium. There, attendees enjoyed a continental breakfast featuring gourmet donuts, juice and water before the program officially kicked off.
Center Director Paula Davis opened the event by welcoming students and introducing Jeff Daniel, CTT Manager, who delivered an informative presentation on the career technical training (CTT) programs offered at the Center. Following the presentation, students were guided through hands-on classroom tours, where current Job Corps students proudly showcased their skills and career pathways.
After lunch, workforce partners joined the event to share information about work-based learning and employment opportunities available through Job Corps. These partners highlighted the real-world career connections that make Job Corps a bridge to long-term success.
The day concluded with a special “signing” moment, as students committed to apply for admission by signing letters of intent. Each participant then received a gift bag and a Job Corps T-shirt symbolizing the start of their journey into career training and personal growth.
“Our goal is to open doors and show students what’s possible. By signing today, these young people are choosing a path that leads to opportunity, growth and a brighter future,” said Melody McCoy, OA/CTS Director at Carl D. Perkins Job Corps. “We are excited to see these young people take the next step toward building skills that will change their lives and communities.”
The Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center provides academic, technical training, and career transition support for youth ages 16–24. For over four decades, the program has helped thousands of young people in Eastern Kentucky prepare for careers in high-demand industries, while also building the confidence and skills needed for success.
If you know anyone who may be interested in the program, they can contact Sabrina Hayden, Outreach and Admissions Manager, by calling 606-433-5336 or 606-339-5045 or by emailing hayden.sabrina@jobcorps.org.
