WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Heath Shuler hosted a Job Corps student from Brevard on Wednesday for a one-day Capitol Hill internship as part of a celebration of Job Corps’ 45th anniversary.
Gavin Palmer spent his day working with Rep. Shuler’s staff and received an inside look at the inner workings of the legislative branch of government, the role that one elected official plays in the overall decision-making processes in Congress, and the relationship between Job Corps and Congress.
“I’m just happy to be up here in the Congressman’s office today learning how everything works,” said Mr. Palmer, who helped with the mail and took a tour of the Capitol.
Mr. Palmer was one of only 60 students selected nationwide to work alongside their Members of Congress and their staffs in the nation’s capital. He has completed training in two trades — mechanics and forestry — at the Schenk Jobs Corps center in Brevard and he will graduate from the program in October with his third trade certification in fire fighting.
“I enjoyed meeting with Gavin and talking with him about his education and his goals,” Rep. Shuler said. “This outstanding young man has shown determination through his hard work, and I am sure that his enthusiasm and work ethic will serve as an inspiration to his peers.”
Over the past 45 years, Job Corps has provided opportunities to nearly 3 million economically disadvantaged young Americans. Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, this voluntary training program offers vocational, academic, and social skills training to students aged 16 to 24 at 123 centers nationwide. Each year, Job Corps serves over 60,000 young people.
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