DeAndre's Story

DeAndre entered the YouthBuild program at OIC of Washington with a glimmer of hope that he might become an underwater welder. Together we researched the best institution in the state of Washington for a career in this area and mapped out a plan to achieve this goal.

Right from the start, DeAndre showcased his determination and leadership qualities. During the Mental Toughness program selection process, he took on a leadership position, demonstrating his commitment to personal growth and development. Once he became an enrolled participant, DeAndre continued to exhibit his leadership skills by leading safety meetings on the jobsite and assisting the construction site supervisor. His peers recognized his capabilities and chose him to represent them on the YouthBuild Council, further solidifying his position as a natural leader.

DeAndre's dedication and hard work have yielded remarkable results. He has successfully obtained his GED, OSHA 10 Certification, and CPR certification, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. He shared the news that he is now employed and has become an apprentice with the Carpenters Union. This opportunity aligns perfectly with his career aspirations, as it provides him with valuable construction training and hands-on experience that will contribute to his journey toward becoming a certified underwater welder. The experience he gained at OIC has laid a solid foundation for him to build upon.

Posted October 11, 2022