By Shawn Nowlin
The college route is not for everyone. There was a time when a degree from a four-year institution was the primary way to ensure professional success. No longer is that the case. More and more teens are choosing apprenticeships over higher education.
A few years ago, the Star City Apprenticeship Program grew from the work of the Roanoke Gun Violence Prevention Commission. Created to prevent, intervene and mitigate youth violence, the program utilizes resources by leveraging various departments, related programming and staff personnel.
Teens 14-18 work through Rapid Engagement of Support in the Event of Trauma (RESET) to gain practical skills and job experience. Once they complete the apprenticeship program, an opportunity to become a city worker is presented.
The ability to secure a quality paying job with just a high school diploma was an unfathomable thought to previous generations. While not always the flashiest, occupations in the manufacturing, hospitality, transportation and food service industries have high demand in the Roanoke Valley.
The Sixth Cohort of the Teen Apprenticeship Program graduation took place on Dec. 14 at 4:30 p.m. in the Berglund Performing Arts Center.
RESET Program Coordinator Lloyd Merchant, who was responsible for vetting and selecting the teen participants said, “When the applications come in, they are forwarded to me from HR and I have to review them all and make a decision as to who is going to be sitting here tonight. After reading over your dreams and aspirations, I am proud to say that each of you is a testament to the collective determination that brought you to this moment.”
More than just a program that welcomes all students, Merchant and the other organizers say the initiative is a worthwhile pursuit and passion.
Speaking on her experience in the program, Shakira Baylor said, “I like being in this program because I get to talk with doctors, sheriffs and other professionals about real life. It was a good experience being around and observing different people. Learning how to project my voice gave me the confidence to get up and speak in front of you all today.”
Roanoke’s Director of Human Resources Angelia Vernon introduced the commencement speaker, Virginia Tech Associate Dean Dr. Janice Branch Hall.
“Now you may be wondering, what is with the gown and this wizard hat? As an Associate Dean, this is the attire I wear on stage for all of our graduation ceremonies. It represents the culmination of a journey and the attainment of a goal,” Hall said. “And it really gives off that, ‘I did that’ energy. This here graduation transcends above all others I’ve administered and has significant meaning to me.”
She continued, “Today, I stand before you as Dr. Branch Hall. But 20 years ago, I was just Janice Branch, a teenager growing up in Richmond where I too attended and graduated from a teen apprenticeship program. Back then, my life experience would have qualified me as a statistic. I lived in multiple housing projects and at times, our family car. I often went to bed hungry. My father was a heroin addict. Despite those obstacles, I had an entire support system who wouldn’t allow me to give up and the same is true for you.”
Approximately 50 youth have graduated from the program since its inception two years ago.
“We are elated to celebrate the accomplishments of another cohort of teen apprentices under the Star City Safe Initiative,” Vernon said. “This program is a great opportunity for youth to gain valuable skills and experience that will assist them in their future endeavors. This program will continue in the future.”
