Indiana Second District Congressman Rudy Yakym visited with students and staff in Starke County yesterday.
Yakym stopped by the SCILL Center in Starke County as part of his “On the Road with Rudy” tour. SCILL Executive Director Jim Hernandez and Coordinator of Student Services and Programs Jerry Gurrado led Congressman Yakym through the several facilities SCILL uses in Knox.
The tour began with visiting the SCILL Vocational Automotive Technology Program. Students explained what they do on a day-to-day basis and also what they hope to do after high school with the skills they are learning.
In total, Yakym visited the automotive technology facility, the EMS, Fire and Rescue certification classrooms at Knox Community Middle School and the new Career Center located at Knox Community High School. Yakym saw the newly built welding facilities within the Career Center.
When asked what he thought about the skills being learned within the SCILL program Yakym said, “This is a hidden gem inside the second congressional district. What I saw here today is the fact that they are taking kids that are in high school and really giving them the skill sets that they need to succeed not only in society but also in the workforce. I think that there are opportunities to take what is happening at Knox and really help educate the rest of the second congressional district on ways that they can be successful with their kids in high school as well.”
Yakym then stated, “The reality is there are a number of jobs that are available right here in this community that don’t require a college degree. What they require is a set of skills to be successful and that is what they teach here. Those are skill sets that translate to good paying jobs right here in Knox and around the second district. What’s refreshing for me to see is a high school that’s doing it right. Teaching kids to be successful and teaching kids about career paths where they can go and have a good living and can provide for their families without a college degree.”
Executive Director Hernandez said not only does the SCILL Center offer a welding program to students, they also offer the course to interested adults. He stated the next adult class will begin on February 6. Those who are interested are encouraged to apply online at www.scill.biz
