🚛✨ Congratulations to 25 dedicated students who completed forklift training at Bibb Instructional Service Center last week and earned their forklift operator certification!
These newly certified operators are now equipped with valuable skills that open doors to exciting career opportunities in warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics. From safety protocols to precision handling, they've mastered it all.
Way to go, graduates! Your hard work and commitment to learning new skills will take you far. Employers are always looking for certified forklift operators, and you're now ready to drive your careers forward!
#ForkliftCertification #SkillsTraining #CareerReady #BibbInstructional #Workforce #Congratulations #NewSkills
about 3 hours ago, J. F. Ingram State
🎉 Congratulations to our graduates! 🎉
We're proud to celebrate the students from the ABPP Huntsville Day Reporting Center who completed their forklift certification course earlier this month! 🚛✨
This certification opens doors to immediate employment opportunities in:
📦 Warehousing & distribution centers
🏭 Manufacturing facilities
🏗️ Construction sites
🚚 Logistics companies
🏪 Retail operations
With Alabama's growing logistics sector and major employers like Amazon, Toyota, and countless local businesses actively hiring certified forklift operators, these graduates are positioned for success. Many of these positions offer competitive wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
Skills + certification + determination = transformed futures 💪
Investing in career training creates pathways to stability, family support, and community contribution. Here's to new beginnings and bright opportunities ahead!
#ForkliftCertified #CareerTraining #HuntsvilleStrong #WorkforceDevelopment #SecondChances #SkillsTraining #JobReady #Alabama
17 days ago, J. F. Ingram State
🍃☕ "Spill the Tea, Sis" - A Day of Healing and Connection ☕🍃
Kudos to Mr. Blackmon, our dedicated TRIO Coordinator at the Tutwiler campus, for hosting this powerful all-day wellness event!
Mr. Blackmon shared his belief that "Humans are meant for connection and can thrive within experiences of positive growth fostering relationships. Experiences of disconnection fuel human suffering - whether through social and cultural oppression, traumatic events, or experiences of abuse."
"Spill the Tea, Sis" created a safe space for women to explore these challenges, understand the root of their experiences, and begin working towards healing while building positive connections over tea and desserts.
**The day featured four important breakout sessions:**
🌱 Depression and Mood Disorders
🌱 Generalized and Social Anxiety
🌱 Grief and Loss
🌱 Traumatic Events
During the session, participants engaged in meaningful conversations that foster understanding, healing, and community. Thank you, Mr. Blackmon, for creating this nurturing environment for growth and connection!
#MentalHealthMatters #HealingJourney #CommunitySupport #TRIOProgram #TutwilerCampus #WomenSupport #Connection #SpillTheTeaSis
19 days ago, J. F. Ingram State
🎓✨ Celebrating Excellence and New Beginnings ✨🎓
Congratulations to Ms. Remeika Prater for being recognized at the FCI Aliceville Literacy and Vocational Trades Graduation on May 2nd!
Ms. Prater shared an uplifting message focused on potential, purpose, and perseverance with the graduating students. Her inspiring words of encouragement resonated deeply with all in attendance, celebrating the graduates' remarkable journey of growth and transformation.
In recognition of her meaningful contribution to this special day, Ms. Prater was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation. Her message reminded everyone that education is the bridge between where you are and where you're meant to be.
Congratulations to all the graduates and thank you to Ms. Prater for sharing such powerful words of encouragement! 📚💪
#Education #Graduation #SecondChances #Inspiration #AlicevilleAL #VocationalTraining #Literacy #NewBeginnings #Perseverance
20 days ago, J. F. Ingram State
🌟 CONGRATULATIONS LATOSHIA SMITH! 🌟
Today we're celebrating Latoshia Smith on her 3-year service milestone with Ingram State! As the electrical instructor at Thomasville Regional Day Reporting Center, Latoshia brings incredible energy and passion to her classroom every single day.
Her enthusiasm for teaching the electrical craft is contagious, inspiring her students to excel while creating a positive learning environment. We're truly honored to have such a dedicated professional on our team!
Join us in congratulating Latoshia on this achievement! #TeamIngram #ServiceAnniversary #ExcellenceInEducation
about 1 month ago, J. F. Ingram State
🎉 Congratulations to Jeff Thomas on earning his first service pin for 3 years with Ingram State!
Jeff began his journey with us as the Facility Maintenance Technician in Thomasville, where his dedicated work and technical expertise quickly made him an invaluable team member. When the opportunity arose to make an even greater impact as an instructor, Jeff enthusiastically embraced the challenge.
Today, Jeff serves as a carpentry instructor at Fountain Instructional Service Center in Atmore, where he's helping students master essential carpentry skills. Through his guidance, students are developing abilities that will make them valuable members of the workforce upon reentry.
Thank you, Jeff, for your commitment to our mission and for choosing to share your expertise with our students. Your transition from maintenance to education exemplifies the dedication and service spirit we celebrate at Ingram State!
#IngramState #ServiceAward #SecondChances #WorkforceTraining
about 1 month ago, J. F. Ingram State
📚 TRANSFORMING FUTURES THROUGH EDUCATION! 📣
Our Adult Education team hosted a powerful state-wide professional development event this week focused on recruitment, retention, and field advancements!
Did you know that approximately 41% of inmates in State and Federal prisons and local jails have not completed high school or its equivalent, compared to just 18% of the general population?
Education is a critical pathway to success - studies show that prison inmates without a high school diploma are more likely to be recidivists than those with higher education. Over half of inmates participate in educational programs while incarcerated, recognizing that education is key to a better future.
Adult Education provides that essential first step to transforming individual futures through the power of learning. When we invest in education, we open doors to endless possibilities!
#AdultEducation #TransformingFutures #EducationMatters #SecondChances
about 1 month ago, J. F. Ingram State
🎓 ACHIEVEMENT UNLOCKED!
Congratulations to Artemas Holloway from our Draper Instructional Service Center on earning his Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Southeastern University!
Dr. Holloway's dedication to education—both his own and his students'—exemplifies excellence at J.F. Ingram State. His positive impact on students and unwavering commitment to their success makes us tremendously proud! #EducationExcellence #DrHolloway #JFIngramState
about 1 month ago, J. F. Ingram State
# Second Chance
Success Story Ronald received his technical training in Carpentry from J.F. Ingram State Technical College's Limestone campus. After taking advantage of reentry services that helped him relocate to Cullman County, Ronald was hired at Jamz Construction as a Line Stripe Technician.
Since then, Ronald has excelled and been promoted to General Manager, now driving a company vehicle and overseeing his own work crew. He's hired three formerly incarcerated individuals, stating: "It feels good to be able to give a second chance to those that deserve one."
Ronald credits ISTC with giving him a new life. Today, he works on million-dollar projects, confidently communicating with superintendents, engineers, and business owners. The blueprint reading, measurement skills, and hands-on projects at ISTC provided the foundation for his success. He's even expanded into entrepreneurship with his own tree cutting business.
Ronald states, "The key to being successful is taking advantage of the opportunities that are before you."
He's particularly grateful to his instructor, Mr. Eric Trahan, for instilling the confidence that drives his achievements today. Ronald Hartzog is truly a living example of the Ingram Story!
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
Second Chance Success Story
Tim, a graduate of Automotive Body Repair at Draper Instructional Service Center, has been putting his skills to work at REHAU Automotive in Cullman, AL since July 2022. As a forklift operator, Tim has maintained steady employment for nearly three years. In his free time, he's put his automotive training to practical use by successfully rebuilding a car—demonstrating both his technical abilities and passion for the trade he studied.
The TRIO Group brought a burst of energy and celebration to campus this April with their Spring Fling events held at Draper, Main, and Tutwiler Instructional Service Centers. These gatherings were specifically designed to honor students’ academic achievements as the semester draws to a close.
As students navigate the final weeks of classes and prepare for exams, the Spring Fling offered a much-needed opportunity to step away from educational pressures and institutional stresses. The events created a welcoming space for participants to relax, connect with peers, and acknowledge their hard work throughout the term.
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
Second Chance Success Story
Walter has built an impressive career in industrial construction since his release. Now a site superintendent with DCI (Diversified Conveyor Installation), Walter previously served as superintendent with AXCON. His first post-release job was with Process Barron doing shutdowns, earning $22.50/hour plus $100 daily per diem—a strong foundation he built upon over the past decade.
Walter's success reflects the powerful mantra his late brother shared with him:
"ALWAYS STAY FOCUSED"
These words have guided Walter's mentality throughout his journey, helping him advance from entry-level positions to leadership roles in specialized industrial construction. His story demonstrates how determination, skills, and the right mindset can build a rewarding career path. #SecondChanceMonth #WorkforceSuccess #AlwaysStayFocused
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
J.F. Ingram State Technical College (ISTC) demonstrated its commitment to environmental stewardship this month by participating in the Alabama PALS (People Against a Littered State) cleanup initiative. Students and staff from multiple ISTC locations dedicated hours to cleaning local parks, helping to reduce trash and waste in surrounding communities.
Alabama PALS has been a driving force in anti-littering campaigns since 1987, partnering with counties, cities, communities, schools, and organizations throughout the state. Through this ongoing partnership, ISTC continues to provide valuable service opportunities that benefit both students and communities while supporting PALS’ mission to enhance Alabama’s environment through education and action.
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
# Second Chance Success Story
William, an Automotive Body Repair graduate from Draper Instructional Service Center, has successfully built a stable work life with dual employment in North Alabama. He currently works at Golden Rod Hatchery cleaning the trays used in the chick hatching process, a position he's held for approximately 3 months. Additionally, William has been applying his culinary skills as a cook at Williams Barbecue restaurant for about 5 months, demonstrating his versatility and strong work ethic. His training in automotive repair combined with his willingness to take on varied roles shows his commitment to rebuilding his life through steady employment and skill development.
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
Second Chance Success Story
Evan, founder and owner of Lakeside Construction Companies in Alabama, specializes in custom home building and high-end window and door systems. After returning home in 2020, he transformed his life experience into a powerful foundation for success, resilience, and integrity.
"It's been a little over four and a half years since I came home," Evan shares. "Some days, it feels like I never left. Other days, it feels like I was gone a lifetime. The truth is, that chapter shaped me—and so has the road since."
Starting with welding before returning to his construction roots, Evan launched his first company within a year of release. Today, his businesses work exclusively with top-tier builders in Alabama's most affluent areas, and he's declined multiple six-figure job offers to continue building his entrepreneurial vision.
"What I've seen—and lived—is this: many people use prison as a lifelong excuse. I've chosen to use it as a reason. A reason to push harder. To be better. To prove to myself that I'm more than a number or a record."
Evan now mentors others rebuilding after incarceration, emphasizing: "What you carry from your past can either be your excuse or your foundation. The choice is yours."
# Second Chance Success Story
Richard, a Diesel Mechanic graduate, is thriving in Alabama's workforce since his release. Now employed as a diesel technician at C&K Trucking Inc. in Webb, he also works in construction in Headland. This well-rounded professional continues to make a significant impact on Alabama's economy through his dual career paths and technical expertise!
#SecondChanceMonth #WorkforceSuccess #DieselTech
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
Geralyn, a graduate of the Logistics & Supply Chain Technology program at Tutwiler Instructional Service Center in Wetumpka, is thriving at Jimenez Produce in Robertsdale! Starting as an order picker last June, she earned a $1.50 raise after just 3 months for exceeding expectations and now ensures order accuracy before shipping.
With the company's upcoming expansion, she's in line for a management position and another raise. Since her release nearly a year ago, Geralyn has graduated DRC in 4 months, completed parole in January, purchased a car in November, and moved into her own place last month.
Her keys to success? "Sobriety and God," she says.
#SecondChanceMonth #WorkforceSuccess #NewBeginnings
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
# Second Chance Success Story
Chad, a graduate of the welding program at Fountain Instructional Service Center in Atmore, now thrives as a level II Mechanical/Electrical Maintenance Technician at Wayne Sanderson Farms in Dothan. After his release, Chad returned to his employer with enhanced knowledge and industry certificates, making him a more valuable team member. We're proud of his perseverance and commitment to building a brighter future!
#SecondChanceMonth #WeldingSuccess #WorkforceReady
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
# Second Chance Success Spotlight
Toni, now an E-Commerce E-Lister at Goodwill Gulf Coast in Mobile, recently earned a well-deserved promotion! Skills from Ms. McClarin's Office Administration class prepared her for photographing, researching, listing, and shipping online items.
While at ISTC, Toni earned Microsoft Office Specialist certification, ACE, WorkKeys, maintained a 4.0 GPA, and completed Troy University's Garden Program.
"ISTC gave me the tools I needed to do something different. I love what I do now, and wouldn't have this job without the knowledge and experience ISTC provided."
Toni's next goal? Management at the new Goodwill in Foley!
#SecondChanceMonth #WorkforceSuccess #NewBeginnings
about 2 months ago, J. F. Ingram State
# Second Chance Success Story
Lawson, a 2024 graduate of Perry County Prep Center, earned his CDL Class A, Forklift Operator Certification, and OSHA 10 certification. Today, he's thriving at Shelby Concrete in Montgomery, building a brighter future with his valuable skills!
#SecondChanceMonth #WorkforceSuccess #SkillsForLife
