After graduating high school, Jayden Combs sought a viable and sustainable career path with help from The Kentucky Career Center at Daniel Boone. He was drawn to the construction and energy sectors, specifically the role of a powerline technician.
Combs’ success was guided by his Career Advisor, Selena Quillon. Quillon conducted a comprehensive interview to assess Jayden’s interests and reviewed Labor Market Information (LMI) for lineman occupations, including regional demand and wage expectations. She then coordinated directly with Hazard Community and Technical College to help him apply and enroll in the training program.
Combs enrolled in the Lineman Training Program at HCTC, where he excelled, finishing at the top of his class. Upon completing the program, he earned both his Lineman Certification and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which significantly boosted his employability. Jayden’s hard work paid off immediately.
“Jayden’s journey is a fantastic example of what can be accomplished when a determined individual is matched with quality training and timely support. He’s a model for youth career development in high-demand trades” said Quillion.
Throughout Combs’ training, the Kentucky Career Center provided crucial supportive services, including travel reimbursement and financial assistance for training gear and attire. After he was hired, Selena ensured he had the lineman-specific tools and safety equipment he needed to start his new job, using WIOA supportive service funds.
He was hired by MDR Powerline Construction soon after graduation. His strong performance led to quick career advancement, and he has since moved to a new role with a local power company, 5 Star Electric. He now earns a self-sufficient wage and has demonstrated long-term career stability.
“I’m grateful for the support I received from the Kentucky Career Center and my advisor, Selena,” Combs said. “They helped me turn my interest in construction into a real career path.”
Ready to begin your journey? Reach out to a career advisor at your nearest Kentucky Career Center. Visit ekcep.org/find-a-career.
EKCEP, a nonprofit workforce development agency headquartered in Hazard, Ky., serves citizens across 23 Appalachian coalfield counties. EKCEP is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, along with various federal and state grants and private donations. Learn more at ekcep.org.