Gadsden Job Corps Center graduates another class of qualified students

GADSDEN, Ala. (WBRC) – For 60 years, Job Corps has been instrumental in the careers of young men and women. The Gadsden Job Corps Center celebrated this 60th anniversary by saying goodbye to another class of men and women.

“Even without going to college, you have the opportunity to get an undergraduate degree and pursue a career,” said Corey Davis.

Corey Davis, director of the Gadsden Job Corps Center, and his team honored students who completed a trade with a graduation ceremony. Director Davis says it shows them that they are special because they have accomplished a great feat in their lives.

“At ages 16 to 24, they just want to start a new career. We offer students a variety of different careers so that when they graduate from the program, they can work in fruit farming for the rest of their lives. They can have well-paying jobs,” Davis said.

Through a partnership with Gadsden State Community College, students can learn a skill while earning a college degree, according to program director John Odom.

“Because we partner with Gadsden State and have an agreement with the college, we are able to house our students here at the center. So not only are you graduating from Job Corps, but if you decide to complete our college program, you are also graduating from Gadsden State,” Odom said.

John Odom, himself a product of the Job Corps, says it laid the foundation for his future.

“As a Job Corps student, I really want to say that people are wondering if Job Corps works. When I spent those three years here at the center, it helped me with all the social skills, all the independent living skills that I needed to survive,” Odom said.

If you would like to visit the Gadsden Job Corps Center, please visit for more information.

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