ODESSA, Fla. — There's an opportunity being offered this weekend for those looking for a new job or a whole new career.
Last year, Kevin Keane, an Air Force veteran, found himself out of work and homeless.
“I felt hopeless. I had never been homeless. Nobody ever thinks that’s going to happen to them," he said.
But at a job fair, Kevin found out about a bootcamp to helps people get into the manufacturing industry.
AmSkills and Tampa Bay Works put it together.
“Manufacturing has changed since I was in it. It’s not so Cro-Magnon. Everything is high tech, computerized,” said Keane.
This year’s workshop is happening Saturday, June 27 at TRU Simulation + Training in Odessa.
It’s designed for those with some experience or even beginners.
And some will then be invited to a free two-week boot camp.
“We are talking about assemblers, machinists, a variety of positions within the manufacturing industry,” said Tom Mudano, AmSkills Executive Director.
Everyone that goes through the program is guaranteed an interview with companies like Jabil, Lockheed Martin and Heat Pipe Technology.
They say there are certain skills they really need for entry-level jobs with starting pay of up to $17 an hour.
“Awareness of safety and how to use hand tools and communicate. Even just arriving on time,” said HPT general manager, Marcus D'Arcy.
Things worked out great for Kevin at last year’s boot camp. He got an interview and then a job.
“My life has changed. I live in a nice house in Clearwater. Met the woman of my dreams and life is great," said Keane.
There are still spots open for Saturday’s workshop, and there will be more opportunities throughout the summer.
For more information and to register, visit AmSkills.org.
