Program Details

How Diego Built a Career, Financial Independence, and a Future in Manufacturing

At just 19, Diego faced a decision familiar to many recent high school graduates: What comes next? As a first-generation Hispanic graduate from a large family, Diego felt pressure to make the right decision for his future. College didn't feel like the right path for him, especially because he worried about the financial burden it could place on his family. At the same time, he knew he wanted to work, become financially independent, and build a career he could be proud of.

Then Diego discovered the JTED Pre-Apprenticeship program (JTED) through social media. Curious about the opportunity, Diego reached out and met with a Career Planner from the Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC). After learning more, he decided to take a chance on himself and pursue a skilled trade without taking on college debt.

From Foundational Skills to CNC

Diego's journey began with a three-week career readiness course, followed by a seven-week foundational skills and CNC pre-apprenticeship pathway. Before entering, he had never heard of CNC (Computer Numerical Control), but after researching it, he wanted to learn more.

Starting the training brought uncertainty: Would there be homework? Tests? The training pushed him outside of his comfort zone. He struggled with math—an important part of CNC training—and, as an English language learner, he had to learn new technical terminology. Instead of letting those challenges stop him, he attended optional math tutoring after morning classes for three weeks, building his skills and connecting with classmates. Diego credits his instructors' knowledge and encouragement for keeping him motivated when things became difficult.  He earned industry-recognized credentials including OSHA-10, Lean Six Sigma – Yellow Belt, and CNC Fundamentals certificates, and received supportive services throughout the program to remove financial barriers that could have stopped him. Gas cards for transportation, work boots, and a Chromebook provided upon completion allowed him to focus entirely on training rather than the costs of getting to class and job hunting.

Seeing Manufacturing Up Close

Some of Diego's favorite experiences were the plant tours and opportunities to see manufacturing careers in action. His class visited IMI in University Park, where students observed manufacturing operations firsthand, walked through the facility, and asked career questions. Attending FABTECH at McCormick Place in Chicago exposed him to a wide range of manufacturing technologies and industry professionals - this was a turning point. It gave him a clearer picture of manufacturing possibilities, leaving him excited, motivated, and seeing himself building a career in CNC.

From Graduate to Machine Operator

As the program ended, Diego participated in a manufacturing job fair at Governors State University, where several employers met with students and conducted on-the-spot interviews. Diego received multiple employment offers. He chose Durobag as the best fit and was hired as a Machine Operator, earning $19 per hour. Over a year later, he has worked his way up to $23 per hour. While the work can be physically demanding and repetitive, Diego appreciates continuous learning and sees room for advancement.

More Than a Job — A New Beginning

For Diego, JTED's impact extends far beyond earning a paycheck. After starting his career, Diego accomplished something especially meaningful to him: he paid off his car and his credit card. These milestones showed he was building the independent future he had hoped for. Diego can also contribute to his family's bills. His next goals are to get his own apartment and eventually buy a home. His parents are very proud, and Diego knows his journey has inspired those around him. "I felt lost in the beginning," Diego shared, feeling the pressure not to let his family down. Finding his own path through JTED gave him the future he needed.