07/06/2026
Jack George is a 21-year-old who had completed high school prior to enrolling in the Department of Labor funded TRA YouthBuild Worcester program in November of 2025. Jack came to the program with an interest in construction trades, but also wanted to explore other career opportunities.
Early in the program, Jack completed his OSHA-10 & OSHA-30 certifications. He then began working on the construction site, learning how to measure and cut, basic framing, and how to use power tools.
In January, Jack also took part in a group of students who attended culinary training provided by Quinsigamond Community College. The training was held throughout January and early February and took place in an industrial kitchen located at the Worcester Senior Center. During this time, Jack earned several certificates, including Serve-Safe, allergens, choke-safety, and food handler, obtaining is National Restaurant Ready Certification. He enjoyed his time in the culinary track and learned how to cook and even tried new foods and dishes.
Jack completed his PACT certification in March of 2026 and was an essential part of the construction team at the YouthBuild project site. In April, he participated in the YouthBuild Advocacy Day at the Massachusetts State House. During the Spring of 2026, he met several local legislators, guest speakers, and union representatives, with an aim to narrow down a specific career path.
He had been made aware of an extraordinary opportunity through AmeriCorps NCCC to participate in the Forest Corps program in Northern California. It is comprised of different firefighting techniques and disciplines. Jack had already held an interest in a career in the Forestry Division, having a love of nature and the woods. Jack was accepted to Forest Corps and left for California in early June. His training began on June 16th, 2026, and will conclude on April 7th, 2027. Upon completing his certification, Jack will be eligible for hire within the Forestry Division as a smoke jumper to help control wildfires and will even be able to cook them all a great meal!
We are all very proud of Jack and his accomplishments and finding his career pathway. Throughout his time in the TRA Worcester YouthBuild program, he was an exemplary student and very participatory. Well-liked by fellow students and staff alike, Jack will be missed dearly. We are, however, very happy that he is following something he is passionate about!
